tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545135827863344862024-03-14T01:52:32.145+00:00The Overflowing Librarykirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.comBlogger1762125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-49945879470255973322024-01-14T10:51:00.000+00:002024-01-14T10:51:09.182+00:00Blog Tour: Return to Half Moon Farm by Holly Hepburn<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkgoImJOmFaEhrBsyEGPWqggXLgeTYGK3BatOmv_mSYlljFlYqU1zTxmSWbP_1t8U2tGaLE8chGgU8S19aeKewh2LM3xoXrysJpDxtw7MbHU5zRSkQopj8p3F_SZnWs4vDl95X0VDUV9FCgO-XZIMYat-5cLQFz9I-dAtFmn50qODRTdbjTxHZyPJMKc3/s900/return-to-half-moon-farm-9781398511989_xlg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="583" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkgoImJOmFaEhrBsyEGPWqggXLgeTYGK3BatOmv_mSYlljFlYqU1zTxmSWbP_1t8U2tGaLE8chGgU8S19aeKewh2LM3xoXrysJpDxtw7MbHU5zRSkQopj8p3F_SZnWs4vDl95X0VDUV9FCgO-XZIMYat-5cLQFz9I-dAtFmn50qODRTdbjTxHZyPJMKc3/s320/return-to-half-moon-farm-9781398511989_xlg.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Discover the beautiful, escapist new novel from beloved author, Holly Hepburn...</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">When Daisy’s mother falls ill she is forced to return home. With her twin sons in tow, she moves back to Half Moon Farm, her family’s ancient hop farm.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">But a new life in the Kent countryside isn’t necessarily as idyllic as it might seem. Daisy’s relationship with her mother is complicated and the tumbledown farm isn’t the only thing that needs rebuilding. Daisy and her sons must adjust to life with estranged family, a leaking roof, and no WiFi.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Luckily for Daisy, she might yet find some distraction in silver fox farmer, Drew, or in the haughty heir to the nearby estate, Kit, who she can’t seem to avoid.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Daisy must learn to juggle her new life, the boys, and the daunting task of updating the farm. But there are secrets lurking in her family’s past that might throw everything into further disarray…</span></p><p><br /></p><p><u><b><span style="font-family: arial;">My Thoughts</span></b></u></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am always delighted to get my hands on a copy of the latest release from Holly Hepburn as I always know I am in for a treat. I am pleased to say that my excitement for 2024's release was not unfounded and I had a thoroughly lovely time reading this book.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This book is the story of Daisy. We meet Daisy at the start of the book as she arrives back at Half Moon Farm. She's reluctantly back with her twin boys in tow after several years of avoiding the place as her mother has been ill and needs some support.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">There were several things I loved about this book. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I enjoyed how this book focused on a chapter in Daisy's life when she has had to start again and find herself. She's back at her childhood home, recently divorced and faced with dealing with an elderly parent she hasn't spent much time with over the years. I loved seeing how she uses the time to build a new relationship not only with her mother but also herself and has the time take stock and think about what she actually wants from life. I think this will resonate with a lot of women in similar situations who have spent years just doing the same thing because that is what they do and not necessarily because they want to. It was so lovely to see her confidence build across the book and see her lean into the person she wanted to be.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Being the particular kind of history geek that I am I loved the connection the book had to World War Two through the letters Daisy finds of her grandmother's. I loved uncovering the family history with her through those letters and getting that glimpse into the past. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Of course it isn't a Holly Hepburn book without a hot male lead or two. Shortly after Holly arrives at Half Moon Farm Daisy is introduced to two men from the village. Silver Fox Drew is a local farmer who has been helping Daisy's mother and quickly becomes keen to spend time with Daisy too. Kit appears in Daisy's life after a small car accident and appears to be the very grumpy Lord of the Manor who Daisy can't seem to avoid even though she really tries to. I loved seeing the how that relationships that Daisy develops with the two men are so very different and couldn't wait to see how things played out.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">All in all a perfect book for hiding away from the weather with snuggled up with a blanket and a hot chocolate. I loved it.</span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-87515844119168211242023-08-05T07:42:00.001+01:002023-08-05T07:42:00.146+01:00Blog Tour: The Vintage Dress Shop in Primrose Hill by Annie Darling<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhldDv_kP2pmJ6L23Qm4qff22RFVhN2mhe0OQtRfNAvNkdkf6zUr0xc8hRmw_IZccTBYZhRdnNOryw6Pq60LGhFi227Ryi035X9huxoJOVmIUwYmx70M6LVHBKD01C3aMVr2LyIZIbU5ezqbid3dLzVk2YoR-rjsRe4_xViJCYZCF3HucA6ladux72A8H/s675/hbg-title-9781399715324-18.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="441" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhldDv_kP2pmJ6L23Qm4qff22RFVhN2mhe0OQtRfNAvNkdkf6zUr0xc8hRmw_IZccTBYZhRdnNOryw6Pq60LGhFi227Ryi035X9huxoJOVmIUwYmx70M6LVHBKD01C3aMVr2LyIZIbU5ezqbid3dLzVk2YoR-rjsRe4_xViJCYZCF3HucA6ladux72A8H/s320/hbg-title-9781399715324-18.webp" width="209" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Sophy Stevens is moving to Australia. Turning thirty has found her unexpectedly out of a job, out of a relationship, and just in need of Something Different – and Australia, where she can finally meet her grandparents and surprise them on their wedding anniversary, looks like the perfect answer . . . if she can save up the money for the plane ticket.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; transition: none 200ms ease 0s;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; transition: none 200ms ease 0s;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">So when her feckless, absent dad Johnno offers her a job at his vintage clothes shop in Primrose Hill, she can’t turn it down. It’ll only be for a few months, after all. But the Vintage Dress Shop turns out to be a treasure trove of gorgeous preloved clothes, from a 1930s cocktail gown to a never-worn 50s wedding dress, and despite the disapproval of the snooty manager, Phoebe, Sophy starts to fall in love with vintage fashion.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; transition: none 200ms ease 0s;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; transition: none 200ms ease 0s;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">And then there’s Charles Radley, the debonair gemstone specialist with exquisite tailoring, cheekbones sharp enough to cut glass, and enough charm to throw Sophy’s plans wildly off course. . .</span></i></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">I am delighted to be hosting a spot on the blog tour for Annie Darling's The Vintage Dress Shop in Primrose Hill. I am a long time fan of Annie's work and have been waiting eagerly for this release. Annie's books are just gorgeous treats for anyone who is a fan of romance novels. You get swept up in the characters from the first page and never want to put them down. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #6d6c6c; font-family: Source Sans Pro, helvetica, sans-serif;">I loved many things about this book. The main character Sophy is a joy to spend time with and absolutely the kind of girl you would want to be friends with. I really enjoyed getting an insight into her world and seeing her life change after finding herself at rock bottom. I loved her interactions with her family, friends and co workers. The rest of the characters are also fab from Cress the step-sister to Johnno Sophy's slightly hopeless dad and Phoebe the manger of the dress shop and of course the very gorgeous Charles. </span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #6d6c6c; font-family: Source Sans Pro, helvetica, sans-serif;">Another thing I loved was the romance with Charles being one of the most charming romantic heroes I have come across. He is sophisticated, charming and a real one of a kind in his dress sense and attitude towards the world which made him such a fascinating character to get to know. I loved seeing the relationship between Sophy and Charles develop across the book and was completely wrapped up in the will they won't they aspect of the story because of the time limits imposed on the relationship. </span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif;">I also need to mention the vintage dress shop itself. The whole idea of such a shop and the community around it was lovely and I could almost envisage it as I was reading. I thought I'd grown out of wanting fictional places to be real but apparently not. I would love to be able to walk into the shop and spend time with all those amazing dresses. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #6d6c6c; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", helvetica, sans-serif;">If you love romance stories this book is definitely for you. Just make sure to clear your schedule as you wouldn't want to do anything else after starting it</span></p><p><br /></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-77162490102904267012023-06-26T08:00:00.049+01:002023-06-26T08:00:00.149+01:00Blog Tour: Maybe Tomorrow by Penny Parkes<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYc_0AzoJ0xbFW6E5zjeWX8mZrV6YahvVkAznZm0ceZ4ZKa5ncpUm0OGxEdHnBUwn5GDecFAsdiyMBCF2bKEReFzK9PhdYe43bp3s_wLLMreFWPUDXg1ySCOTrmI8Ecw1-4ILM8Jhm1k2DSdBLegw1EVKh9u0KYibRMNeMvKlOkL7ztdfwTj-ic7eqXTV/s320/71UBnGPf0AL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="209" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYc_0AzoJ0xbFW6E5zjeWX8mZrV6YahvVkAznZm0ceZ4ZKa5ncpUm0OGxEdHnBUwn5GDecFAsdiyMBCF2bKEReFzK9PhdYe43bp3s_wLLMreFWPUDXg1ySCOTrmI8Ecw1-4ILM8Jhm1k2DSdBLegw1EVKh9u0KYibRMNeMvKlOkL7ztdfwTj-ic7eqXTV/s1600/71UBnGPf0AL.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><b style="font-family: arial; text-align: justify;">A story of friendship, possibilities and hope that maybe tomorrow will be brighter than today . . .</b></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Jamie Matson had once enjoyed a wonderful life working alongside her best friend, organising adventures for single-parent families, and her son Bo’s artistic flair a source of pride rather than concern.</span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;">She hadn’t been prepared to lose her business, her home and her friend. Not all in one dreadful year.</span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Jamie certainly hadn’t expected to find such hope and camaraderie in the queue at her local food bank. Thrown together with an unlikely and colourful group of people, their friendships flourish and, finding it easier to be objective about each other than about themselves, they decide that – when you’re all out of options – it’s okay to bend the rules a little and create your own.</span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>What a difference a year could make . . . </b></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It is not a secret I am a Penny Parkes fan. I have waited for this book with great anticipation and I was so very excited to read it. I'm glad to say it did not disappoint.</span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">This book is the story of Jamie and her boy Bo. Jamie is anyone of us. Pre pandemic she had a good career and was doing ok. Then everything went wrong and she found herself through no fault of her own relying on a foodbank parcels and struggling to make ends meet and despite working as hard as she it is never quite enough. I think this is resonate with a lot of readers because getting a glimpse into Jamie's circumstances really showed how with a slight change in fortunate any of us could end up in a similar position. </span></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">I loved what this book had to say about friendship and found family. Early on in the book Jamie finds herself a new set of friends who are also foodbank users and they quickly form a bond. I loved seeing the support they all gave each other and how important those new friendship became in such a short space of time. </span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">A brilliant read which is full of heart and emotion and will leave you with a lot to think about.</span></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">This book highlights the important and vital work carried out by foodbanks. If you have some pennies to spare my local foodbank does such a service to people locally and would love any donations to help support their work. Find them at </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial;"><a href="https://northnorfolk.foodbank.org.uk/">https://northnorfolk.foodbank.org.uk/ </a></span></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">Follow the rest of the tour </span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNC7e3wMpUmuxM74h2_FkTHP-vOwqXVsEwdmgxT3V2Q_uyevFLLkpkYB5chygiTTGgaX3vYAYJ_PEtezOdthJJnbalJv7TWwWgVu1osDQ8GvNxX_bK1JzhXJNKtaykz-3XZnPlERG72fTXTonozs9CvKIyZPhFCLRq-x308sogjpqNjq6L0khd_L0HUuG/s1080/thumbnail_image005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNC7e3wMpUmuxM74h2_FkTHP-vOwqXVsEwdmgxT3V2Q_uyevFLLkpkYB5chygiTTGgaX3vYAYJ_PEtezOdthJJnbalJv7TWwWgVu1osDQ8GvNxX_bK1JzhXJNKtaykz-3XZnPlERG72fTXTonozs9CvKIyZPhFCLRq-x308sogjpqNjq6L0khd_L0HUuG/s320/thumbnail_image005.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="background-color: #fafafe; text-align: justify;"><br /></div>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-53580623804022361182023-01-18T14:21:00.036+00:002023-01-18T14:21:00.196+00:00Blog Tour: The House That Made Us by Alice Cavanagh<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4J3Qyx7BFSZNtJY_OnzXV5qbqWcBSC3g6da9W7Wn1aOinNYPfIHJ9VByRzYjoxB4qz6QBX2FxSFcCBQLkaxBGLqTYMrpFzEpVv0UZTioC0ICZZgf-uwz05_gVg9--oGCMudAbd6t-I-WJLGfYm4Kk8nDdAp40zIXOt103chhk2b2HNtir1q1eU_mIOw/s400/the-house-that-made-us-9781398510562_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="263" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4J3Qyx7BFSZNtJY_OnzXV5qbqWcBSC3g6da9W7Wn1aOinNYPfIHJ9VByRzYjoxB4qz6QBX2FxSFcCBQLkaxBGLqTYMrpFzEpVv0UZTioC0ICZZgf-uwz05_gVg9--oGCMudAbd6t-I-WJLGfYm4Kk8nDdAp40zIXOt103chhk2b2HNtir1q1eU_mIOw/s320/the-house-that-made-us-9781398510562_lg.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><b style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><i style="box-sizing: inherit;">One Day</i> meets <i style="box-sizing: inherit;">Up</i>: <i style="box-sizing: inherit;">The House That Made Us</i> is a love story – and a life story – told through a series of photographs and inspired by a true story</b><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">When Mac and Marie marry and find a home of their own, Mac takes a snap of them outside their newbuild bungalow, the garden bare and the paint on the front door still wet. It becomes a tradition, this snap, and slowly the photographs build into an album of a fifty-year relationship.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Every year they take a photo and though things change around them – the garden matures, the fashions change, they grow older – the one constant is their love. Every year, come rain, come shine, from the Seventies through the decades, every photo tells the story of their love. But life never travels the path you expect it to, though they know that a life with love is a life lived to the full.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Now, in the present day, the photo album belongs to someone who doesn’t know the people in its pages. As they watch the lives from the past unfold, will the truth of their love story be told…?</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><b style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">A heart-breaking story about life and love for readers who love Holly Miller, Jojo Moyes and Hazel Prior.</b></p><p><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">I am thrilled to be taking part in the blog tour for The House that Made Us by Alice Cavanagh. I knew I was in for a treat when I was emailed about this book as I love books written by Alice under her other pennames.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">The House That Made Us is the story of Mac and Marie told through a photo album of pictures taken yearly on their wedding anniversary over time. I love this concept because it meant as the reader you got to drop in and seeing the family over time and see how life panned out for them over time as their family grew and changed. I loved dipping in and out of their lives and seeing those changes over time which I found particularly nostalgic when seeing their earlier life and all those things we all had in our houses or talked about because it was on the news.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Mac and Marie as a couple are a delight. They deal with everything thrown at them and some and I really enjoyed seeing how they battled through everything together. I liked how this book didn't shy away from the harder bits of life we all go through and it made them feel very real as a couple. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">I also liked what the book had to say about family as Mac and Marie's extended family isn't at all conventional but it doesn't matter to them and the way they treat those around them is lovely to see. Within a few chapters I wanted to go and settle down in their living room with them to catch up with everyone and get all the gossip.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">In short I thoroughly enjoyed this lovely book. If you love romantic fiction with a gorgeous family at its heart then this book will be for you.</span></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-28572161742970311332023-01-17T09:00:00.040+00:002023-01-17T09:00:00.231+00:00Blog Tour: Escape to Darling Cove by Holly Hepburn<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0nZ6txIqV7DBgjf1tltA5i8NexfpWYQeeqtorogJf8vm1qkp5w063k0T0kZBsXguHBgFuOqxLn1B-4F_XbPYEuWsnuzBDDnISq6JXsmpzyo0HR_zhT2EySzZCxdNe4w5zIP45_VfIxiOetdSm0qlN_ABx1inJ_o8U-FKugwwz9q6tmINfeRd0B4dZaQ/s900/escape-to-darling-cove-9781398511927_xlg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="591" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0nZ6txIqV7DBgjf1tltA5i8NexfpWYQeeqtorogJf8vm1qkp5w063k0T0kZBsXguHBgFuOqxLn1B-4F_XbPYEuWsnuzBDDnISq6JXsmpzyo0HR_zhT2EySzZCxdNe4w5zIP45_VfIxiOetdSm0qlN_ABx1inJ_o8U-FKugwwz9q6tmINfeRd0B4dZaQ/s320/escape-to-darling-cove-9781398511927_xlg.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I am delighted to be hosting a spot on the Blog Tour for Holly Hepburn's newest release Escape to Darling Cove. I love Holly's books so I know a new book from her is always going to be a treat and this was no exception</p><p><u>Official blurb</u></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-size: 16px;">Eve has always lived on Ennisfarne, an idyllic island just off the coast of Northumberland and only accessible when tides are low. There she runs a bar overlooking Darling Cove, a heavenly horseshoe-shaped beach named after her seafaring ancestors, whose links to the Farne Islands stretch back centuries.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-size: 16px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-size: 16px;">Logan is a famous photographer desperate to evade the limelight after a difficult break-up. Renting a cottage from Eve, he chooses Ennisfarne in the hope of anonymity but is immediately spellbound by its natural beauty.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-size: 16px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-size: 16px;">The pair don’t get off to the best start, butting heads over Eve’s adorable but boisterous Chocolate Labrador. But when Logan's true identity is revealed, Eve realises her new tenant isn’t quite the man she thought he was. Is it too late to start again or will Logan’s island escape be over almost before it’s begun?</span></i></span></p><p><span style="color: #0a0a0a; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><u>My Thoughts</u></span></span></p><p><span style="color: #0a0a0a; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">I loved this book. Holly's books are always a treat and a real example for me of a pure comfort read. You just know that you can take one of her books, snuggle under a blanket and be in for a treat of an afternoon where you are transported to somewhere new with a host of lovely characters to spend some lovely time with.</span></span></p><p>Darling Cove is the story of Eve and Logan with the chapters alternating back and forth between their point of views. Logan arrives on the Island to get away from it all and hide from the world and Eve to a certain extent has been doing that all her life having rarely left the island with no desire to particularly do so at any point. I liked seeing their relationship grow over the course of the book from a rocky start to seeing them start to become friends as they start to understand one another more.</p><p>The real star of this book is the island itself and the community of characters featured. Within a few chapters I wanted to visit the island and spent time at the shop / deli, while away a few hours in the pub and go for long walks on the beach.</p><p>All in All I loved this treat of a book. Add it to your TBR pile. You won't be disappointed.</p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-8022898165165156502022-12-31T11:28:00.172+00:002023-01-14T12:39:13.182+00:002022 favourites<p>2022 has been a rollercoaster for me. A lot of the year was fairly awful due to my old job being consistently horrible and a family member being ill for most of the summer and it taking a while to work out what it was to be able to get them on the mend. Fortunately things did turn around. I finally quit teaching, I learnt to paddleboard, started a brilliant new job at Norfolk Children's Book Centre and got my reading mojo back.</p><p>In 2022 I read 305 books the majority of those being 5 or 4 star reads as I am serial DNFer and will abandon books I am not enjoying very quickly because life is too short. I am pleased to say this year I have read a lot more YA than last year which pleases me no end as I love YA fiction and can't get enough UKYA. A good chunk of what I read in 2022 were picture books which I am picking up at work and reading in my breaks or mid shelving or order packing when something intriguing appears in my hand. I have always been a picture book fan and loving getting to read so many more. </p><p>On twitter and instagram I did two top nines of my favourite books of the year because why not when I read as much as I do.</p><p><u><b>Top Nine stand alone / first in a series books of 2022</b></u></p><p>First I picked my Top Nine Reads of the year focusing on stand alone / first in a series books</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRIUVgfMHzzCQ4u-NnooASY-fwiv0bCa9dWHDzrjg6ImvBF-IHHLlzLwQXI3rmIb5NNMNL-__Z9M52Krq96w9P5n64h8AXJDk-W9SiLvrspHpKswAo2FxeFJp9QHarpC1uv0xMC6UJgyxFLh_jrDZs0MrIWPzEI7Z4VdyUWJQpBIY6HzDwZdr7ZvL9oA/s2048/228DF8F9-4276-4B4E-A89A-31B8AB6EA2C6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRIUVgfMHzzCQ4u-NnooASY-fwiv0bCa9dWHDzrjg6ImvBF-IHHLlzLwQXI3rmIb5NNMNL-__Z9M52Krq96w9P5n64h8AXJDk-W9SiLvrspHpKswAo2FxeFJp9QHarpC1uv0xMC6UJgyxFLh_jrDZs0MrIWPzEI7Z4VdyUWJQpBIY6HzDwZdr7ZvL9oA/s320/228DF8F9-4276-4B4E-A89A-31B8AB6EA2C6.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys is a brilliant YA historical fiction novel set during The Cold War and giving a real insight into life under a Communist regime. I loved every page</div><div><br /></div><div>Beautiful Little Fools by Olivia Horrox is a dreamy novel set in 1920s Cornwall and I loved every page of it. The romance was lovely and I loved the setting (both place and time) completely. It could have been written just for me and felt like an older Eva Ibbotson.</div><div><br /></div><div>Something Certain Maybe by Sara Barnard is an older YA novel set at UEA and focuses on a main character who isn't loving the university experience as much as those around her. It resonated with me a lot because I had an odd university experience at UEA and whilst I didn't feel the same as the character I could very much empathise and was blasted with nostalgia all the way through.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Ministry of Unladylike Activity by Robin Stevens is one I have been waiting for since I heard it existed a long while ago. I loved her previous series and couldn't wait to get my hands on this as WWII fiction is my catnip. I loved it and can't wait for more.</div><div><br /></div><div>Six times we almost kissed (and the one time with did) by Tess Sharpe is a 2023 novel which I was excited to read having previously enjoyed Tess's books. This did not disappoint at all. It contained all the things I love about YA fiction and a really heartfelt story</div><div><br /></div><div>London with Love by Sarra Manning was always going to be a favourite. I love Sarra's books and have done for more years than I can count and as an added bonus I feature in this book. I loved it and couldn't put it down.</div><div><br /></div><div>If You Still Recognise Me by Cynthia So is one of those lovely quiet YA books which draws you in and has so much to say. I thought it was really lovely indeed.</div><div><br /></div><div>Only love can hurt like this by Paige Toon was another 2023 release. I love Paige Toon's books and couldn't wait to get my hands on this and I loved it entirely. It's romantic. It's utterly devastating in places and I thought it was brilliant.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Agency for Scandal by Laura Wood was one of the last books I read of 2022 having snagged an early copy at work ready for the early 2023 and goodness me that book could have been written for me. Set in Victorian London it features as series of young women who run an investigation agency and spend their time taking down rich men who have acted awful. I want a whole series of sequels.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Top Nine books in a series / sequels reads of 2022</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>I also picked a Top Nine Reads of the year focusing on books that are sequels / next in the series. There are a lot of authors whose books I adore because they write series I come back to time and time again and consistently love. They are pure comfort reading as I know exactly what I am going to get with their books and I always know I am going to enjoy them. These are my complete guilty pleasure reads (not that I every feel guilty about reading what I enjoy) and reading everyone is a joy.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EA4JvJHX79-Sohuryts6jO74uobAFibYnW9jlAK-4tZxG3d6Q46CSsH5U9fRGuNQn3EJYO2a0hPfBP7KIOMhak4qH_Sg5FNylDykeP1oAMv5U0g8WEyhb9SYUgrWX-G0WJNZOPJID90Z2TBZCr9tiF3TwEwkOZB7KNfs4h1CjT7iquIMBpSgUzjCvg/s2048/B9CD8E51-AC3B-4E60-B7A5-DD8BF203AFCE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EA4JvJHX79-Sohuryts6jO74uobAFibYnW9jlAK-4tZxG3d6Q46CSsH5U9fRGuNQn3EJYO2a0hPfBP7KIOMhak4qH_Sg5FNylDykeP1oAMv5U0g8WEyhb9SYUgrWX-G0WJNZOPJID90Z2TBZCr9tiF3TwEwkOZB7KNfs4h1CjT7iquIMBpSgUzjCvg/s320/B9CD8E51-AC3B-4E60-B7A5-DD8BF203AFCE.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Murder Most Royal by SJ Bennett is the third book in the series featuring The Queen as a murder mystery solving sleuth. I love this series and I did like how it has unwittingly become a lovely tribute to The Queen due to the timing of release in relation to her death. </p><p>I loved being back on Mure with Jenny Colgan in An Island wedding. You can never go wrong with a Mure book and I loved every page. I loved loved being in Scotland with Julie Caplin in The Christmas Castle in Scotland. I loved this series of books which all feature a lovely location and lots of food. They definitely can be read as standalones but you do get characters from previous books pop up and I love that.</p><p>Heidi Swain's books are my favourites. I have been treated to two this year with A Christmas Celebration and The Summer Fair and I loved them both. Talking of favourites I have also been treated to two lovely books from Cressida McLaughlin in 2022 (her third book of 2022 I read in 2021 and also adored) both from the Cornish Cream Tea Series which were both as lovely as I expected.</p><p>I loved Elly Griffiths's 2022 release of the Locked Room. This series is set locally to me and I love it entirely.</p><p>Finally I loved Release by Lucy Christopher. Stolen is one of my favourite YA books of all time so to get a sequel after all this time was so ridiculously exciting.</p><p><b><u>Reading goals for 2023</u></b></p><p>I want to read even more than this year. We have core stock shelves at work full of books we also have in stock because they are brilliant books that we always want on hand for recommendations in the shop or for putting in orders for school. Over the course of the year I want to read through as many books as I can from those shelves.</p></div>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-38568817296907105562022-10-13T09:15:00.001+01:002022-10-13T09:15:00.220+01:00Blog Tour: A Christmas Celebration by Heidi Swain<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin4HKgRlo-aiJjeFOz6rdlJPkY_BR7dQOHielg6XEbZUn6LXSY5vehjTw3DM6FzyD_v-o_elW_C3i9MUGAPECfvnQXyJS-eg09SgleetKWGAKJ6Pq1rwJFjc-wpdS8ZOU4-YZ5NkkOLDm1-x_-gyJZTThaI9o7mYd9VidgMO51Y2OT7Yk8hk6clxKaTA/s640/0003458734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="421" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin4HKgRlo-aiJjeFOz6rdlJPkY_BR7dQOHielg6XEbZUn6LXSY5vehjTw3DM6FzyD_v-o_elW_C3i9MUGAPECfvnQXyJS-eg09SgleetKWGAKJ6Pq1rwJFjc-wpdS8ZOU4-YZ5NkkOLDm1-x_-gyJZTThaI9o7mYd9VidgMO51Y2OT7Yk8hk6clxKaTA/s320/0003458734.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">When Paige turns up unannounced at Wynthorpe Hall, she discovers the place she knew when she was growing up has changed beyond all recognition. She’s only planning to stay for a short time, but is quickly pulled into local life.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">One night while driving home after delivering library books and shopping to residents she stumbles across an isolated cottage and meets Albert, its elderly and rather grumpy owner. She quickly realises there’s more to Albert than meets the eye and the same can be said for the other man she can’t seem to help running into, handsome but brooding Brodie.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">All three of them have a secret and a desire to hide away from the world, but with Christmas on the horizon, is that really the best way to celebrate the season?</span></i></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">I am delighted to be hosting a spot on the blog tour for Heidi Swain's newest book A Christmas Celebration. I love Heidi's books and I know I am always in for a treat when a new one appears and A Christmas Celebration was definitely that. I loved every single page and loved being back at Wynthorpe Hall.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #1e1915; font-family: Proxima Nova, Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif;">A Christmas Celebration is Paige's story. Paige has recently returned from abroad a little bit broken having been previously working as an aid worker and the experience of doing so has taken a toll on her even if she can't quite admit it. She comes across as a bit lost and a bit sad without any real plan of what she might go onto next. For me the beauty of this book is seeing Paige start to work out what it is what she wants to do and be now that her previous job isn't really an option anymore. Being in that place of trying to work out what you might want from life and what it is you need to be happy and content really resonated with me and I enjoyed seeing Paige work through that.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Being back at Wynthorpe Hall was a treat in itself. Going back feels like a family reunion as you get to spend time with characters we've previously spent books with and it it lovely to catch up with them and see how things have been with them since their previous outing. Even being back in Wynthorpe itself has a lovely familiarity as the settings are as much a character as the people in Heidi's books.</span></p><p><span style="color: #1e1915; font-family: Proxima Nova, Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">This book arguably has two leading, and very different, men both of which come into Paige's life shortly after her arrival at Wynthorpe Hall. I defy you not to fall just a little bit for both of them. I loved the relationship Paige develops with Albert and seeing him transform from someone who has just given up and given in to being old and feeling useless to someone who wants to make the most of life and engaging with the community around him. I also thoroughly enjoyed the romance at the heart of this story with Brodie and seeing how it develops over the course of the book. If you are a Heidi fan already you'll know it was never going to be straight forward</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Do yourself a favour grab your copy, obligatory festive snacks and blanket ready to snuggle down for some festive me time. You will not regret it.</span></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-37707181439665439312022-10-05T19:14:00.003+01:002022-10-05T19:14:38.121+01:00September favourites <p> So it's been a while.</p><p>As aside from a few blog tours I haven't been blogging properly for a good long while. Over the past few years my teaching job started to take up more and more of my free time and head space and that took its toll on both the time I had available to read and my inclination to want to sit and write out blog posts especially in the dark days of lockdown when I was spending my days glued to a screen trying to teach remotely.</p><p>This summer I left my teaching job and I started work at the very lovely Norfolk Children's Book Centre where I get to spend my days surrounded by all the books which is brilliant. Over the last few years I've never stopped reading but the rate in which I was getting through books slowed way down but now I'm out of teaching and with the books all day my reading mojo is definitely back so hoping to return to here more frequently to cover some of my favourite reads each month in addition to all my usual activities on twitter, instagram and goodreads.</p><p><br /></p><p><u><b>September reads</b></u></p><p>Over the course of September I read 28 books which was made up of 14 picture books, 7 children's books, 4 YA books and 3 adult books. 10 of those were review books. To see the full list of everything I read in September check out my <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3868340-kirsty?utf8=%E2%9C%93&order=d&ref=nav_mybooks&shelf=read&sort=date_read&title=kirsty&per_page=50">read shelves on goodreads </a>or have a look through my twitter or instagram feeds (@overflowingklc on both)</p><p><u>Favourite picture books</u></p><p>One of the joys of my new job is that I have rediscovered picture books and I'm being treated to some real gems. My favourite ones read in September include Sometimes I am Furious by Timothy Knapman, I Dare You by Reece Wykes and Maybe by Chris Haughton.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS8p_Ba2GoO9Zh0F7-diz_YY_49okskasUpVBOnVVI13u1sOAHycbgD9quya2WJaRYm2ppTlahDYTR09ru19yJyeWlldO8iY-8RYdgivm-gTmNBN_uUznqLt1KlohmMxd95drFkXwmH6CyDU080uXQpvwfVlEowmtQzE-9nS_Mga_bEw2Kyb4_IIQqRQ/s2560/81l1Uy9rn0L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS8p_Ba2GoO9Zh0F7-diz_YY_49okskasUpVBOnVVI13u1sOAHycbgD9quya2WJaRYm2ppTlahDYTR09ru19yJyeWlldO8iY-8RYdgivm-gTmNBN_uUznqLt1KlohmMxd95drFkXwmH6CyDU080uXQpvwfVlEowmtQzE-9nS_Mga_bEw2Kyb4_IIQqRQ/s320/81l1Uy9rn0L.jpg" width="256" /></a> </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNEy4VDjF7NsefoJNO5kEESkm-wwGZFCZgMlS_WpfAoTYcQyrKxK1zj34VZVczQwgiSgY158dCW9l8A-f4f143SbkyvCqwpsY1g6c97r5aUpYs98kxcfswqu29X2Wi5PvrTPGGO5X4TgKo45NqAT6zADO9dCDzVRkakfjLkXp28ff7KKll3Vr6jlhDg/s2560/916PmJ+1DeL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2462" data-original-width="2560" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNEy4VDjF7NsefoJNO5kEESkm-wwGZFCZgMlS_WpfAoTYcQyrKxK1zj34VZVczQwgiSgY158dCW9l8A-f4f143SbkyvCqwpsY1g6c97r5aUpYs98kxcfswqu29X2Wi5PvrTPGGO5X4TgKo45NqAT6zADO9dCDzVRkakfjLkXp28ff7KKll3Vr6jlhDg/s320/916PmJ+1DeL.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynd7lGC5bvY5K5NbpGWZLrD5d3hO9653actK9Rnp4ZwCeHPYm0uLxKLfWGsKIs9kpcp_RexLtbK8qhZeboTf412SCaP3Ayg9OsVeM2rs1Ax1vGj3xPxwdkoFeUogeZ_Eu67iFrw7EvfSDKX7f1pAZGG9hrjxrDm74wnxb67hpZU68a1Q-mSMnjpRq4A/s500/9781529503982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="481" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynd7lGC5bvY5K5NbpGWZLrD5d3hO9653actK9Rnp4ZwCeHPYm0uLxKLfWGsKIs9kpcp_RexLtbK8qhZeboTf412SCaP3Ayg9OsVeM2rs1Ax1vGj3xPxwdkoFeUogeZ_Eu67iFrw7EvfSDKX7f1pAZGG9hrjxrDm74wnxb67hpZU68a1Q-mSMnjpRq4A/s320/9781529503982.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><br /><p>I loved all three of these mostly because they all made my chuckle in unexpected ways. Particularly so with I Dare You which did not go where I thought it might.</p><p><u>Favourite children's book</u></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7LSUPm_hgVWNLufpE5U1S8iwvFKPsPscbZ2GQQGSHoErd2KDYpwcmAiv62oRK_Jlorkq_BSLlgHF_zQYtjjl7GfA97Sx2cbwNdMm4k2zie_kOPO64_VjHOCl5ds_W30RF2M-wu7Xwe4DOtZTA5sQ8QKIVE_8xxcIPOxIbJC2E4bppVBRvMZ-tHLItzw/s1928/the-little-match-girl-strikes-back-9781398512818_hr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1928" data-original-width="1400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7LSUPm_hgVWNLufpE5U1S8iwvFKPsPscbZ2GQQGSHoErd2KDYpwcmAiv62oRK_Jlorkq_BSLlgHF_zQYtjjl7GfA97Sx2cbwNdMm4k2zie_kOPO64_VjHOCl5ds_W30RF2M-wu7Xwe4DOtZTA5sQ8QKIVE_8xxcIPOxIbJC2E4bppVBRvMZ-tHLItzw/s320/the-little-match-girl-strikes-back-9781398512818_hr.jpg" width="232" /></a></div><br /><p>I've been looking forward to The Little Match Girl Strikes Back for a while. I've always liked Emma Carroll's books both as a reader but also as a history teacher and they often ended up being my go to books to recommend to my KS3 readers. I bought a signed copy of this little gem when it came into the shop and it did not disappoint. It is a brilliant take on the traditional story which gives lots of insight into the living and working conditions of the working poor in Victorian London as well as giving The Little Match Girl a voice to fight back and push for a change. </p><p><u>Favourite YA book</u></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1kBt_r7-OLy1YTW1MQS7QukEmJt16WBULuC1XFOUz-4K-KdLVrr9HddXI_n2KCrfGADYqgxJzELwogrhY18YDQBITC_KqV5vA0IuSkuUzWeF-P1UpsuYgT3qx1eWo5uP1ZC3T53FGz-XMlZ44rsyYcZo9XdB8u-l_VhaXU3udBdmqeuDV5GyCFrCUyg/s1274/60545658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1274" data-original-width="852" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1kBt_r7-OLy1YTW1MQS7QukEmJt16WBULuC1XFOUz-4K-KdLVrr9HddXI_n2KCrfGADYqgxJzELwogrhY18YDQBITC_KqV5vA0IuSkuUzWeF-P1UpsuYgT3qx1eWo5uP1ZC3T53FGz-XMlZ44rsyYcZo9XdB8u-l_VhaXU3udBdmqeuDV5GyCFrCUyg/s320/60545658.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><br />Activist by Louisa Reid has been on my radar for a while as I've seen early reviews popping up so I was excited to get my hands on an early copy of this which came into the shop after an event. It is stunningly good and covers issues around consent, sexism and the power of one voice demanding change so well. <p></p><p><u>Favourite Adult books</u></p><p>I was spoilt this month which some brilliant adult books for review.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieWS7tl3wvXiCPNP_l852bcj3GNebG7D1uBxDwOE5R7Lq9TT3d-LJbjbQn2TcGlpma8vvINB28HgGov1A2xM6AR_7X1rc2YUb7dnt9HojYHko7u3wfaU5XmjgOWzQ6SZ0gHFjb3Xg-p-DOhZ1tSn8wj1gKUnRKD1YxjCg49Kcn2mYGTQRjI1ewPC5mOQ/s2130/71AjTYCRrKL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2130" data-original-width="1400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieWS7tl3wvXiCPNP_l852bcj3GNebG7D1uBxDwOE5R7Lq9TT3d-LJbjbQn2TcGlpma8vvINB28HgGov1A2xM6AR_7X1rc2YUb7dnt9HojYHko7u3wfaU5XmjgOWzQ6SZ0gHFjb3Xg-p-DOhZ1tSn8wj1gKUnRKD1YxjCg49Kcn2mYGTQRjI1ewPC5mOQ/s320/71AjTYCRrKL.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><p>The Christmas Celebration by Heidi Swain is out in October. I got my hands on a copy from Team Books and The City who sent me a finished copy for taking part in the blog tour to celebrate its release which I have coming up later in the month so I won't say much other than that I loved it and save a review for the blog tour.</p><p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pkflCwLU2nOQeXh-dyASBeN9FPER-gow6mXX2Xkd8n3BRVd-p41QeA7gNWMEYe4h48lBIQL8e0nn7J7-mTEnHM9VaaVS97_5ASnDQdvpQfFEO3-QZKAwuoV7LyFMYIm0wBIVI-bEvLbqXl6F79XVUgEPkC70DY31gPv7rwWsb52NyGKX1Isu4h2oJA/s393/60847971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pkflCwLU2nOQeXh-dyASBeN9FPER-gow6mXX2Xkd8n3BRVd-p41QeA7gNWMEYe4h48lBIQL8e0nn7J7-mTEnHM9VaaVS97_5ASnDQdvpQfFEO3-QZKAwuoV7LyFMYIm0wBIVI-bEvLbqXl6F79XVUgEPkC70DY31gPv7rwWsb52NyGKX1Isu4h2oJA/s320/60847971.jpg" width="208" /></a></div><p>Only Love Can Hurt Like This by Paige Toon is just brilliant. Paige's books always are and I was so very excited to get my hands on such an early copy of it. I won't say much again as it is probably a bit too early to be doing so apart from to say it is brilliant and if you are a Paige Fan you will love it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzwyOjk634KRq179MXgZUnSSo6vuLPcYFqf4JnXA87hnOsfDbcZ52Nlx0fG5nornwZ120oQ-1GLHGcsNuT-8mAXCRUfAs7OH_IgFM-xs9CXuOjgjXOsG7zM5uUf1wYwZ7DDlPmialrXDetlE1TnMnbYA8bE8p3xJ_8O9BoxE7VWLdEjO1L2BG23H81Xg/s500/61874409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="326" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzwyOjk634KRq179MXgZUnSSo6vuLPcYFqf4JnXA87hnOsfDbcZ52Nlx0fG5nornwZ120oQ-1GLHGcsNuT-8mAXCRUfAs7OH_IgFM-xs9CXuOjgjXOsG7zM5uUf1wYwZ7DDlPmialrXDetlE1TnMnbYA8bE8p3xJ_8O9BoxE7VWLdEjO1L2BG23H81Xg/s320/61874409.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><p>Beautiful Little Fools by Olivia Horrox looked like a me book when I first saw it appear on netgalley and it absolutely was. It is set in the 1920s in a Cornwall seaside village and feels like one of Eva Ibbotson's older titles. It is definitely a coming of age story and has a dreamy romance as part of the story. I really loved it.</p>If you are inclined to buy any and want to support indie bookshops please use <a href="https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/norfolkcbc">bookshop.org to make your purchase</a> (or pop into NCBC if you are local)<p></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-64549231288101203312022-09-16T09:00:00.020+01:002022-09-16T09:00:00.218+01:00Blog Tour: The Legacy of Halesham Hall by Jenni Keer<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0OHtYt0s3uRCiKbfdSr2WoUZ-c1Si0jl7NR9sU68meto8gHG-PUOuweRgKWPiBNiOB_r-EJas8gzh1bMwhBXj5hewBjsi0buIIAuSvG41-PWKVvncARLB4OUciZDbmfsVKpSd9K2OnQcETP378isgXn8Ty31kgbAt-kl65O1JzE3unFPPhAcdeSX0g/s500/59612567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="326" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0OHtYt0s3uRCiKbfdSr2WoUZ-c1Si0jl7NR9sU68meto8gHG-PUOuweRgKWPiBNiOB_r-EJas8gzh1bMwhBXj5hewBjsi0buIIAuSvG41-PWKVvncARLB4OUciZDbmfsVKpSd9K2OnQcETP378isgXn8Ty31kgbAt-kl65O1JzE3unFPPhAcdeSX0g/s320/59612567.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Solve the house's puzzle. Claim the Bellingham inheritance . . . Uncover the truth behind the mysterious legacy of Halesham Hall in this page-turning dual-time novel from the author The Secrets of Hawthorn Place, perfect for fans of Lucinda Riley and Kate Morton.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">A love that seems lost, may still yet be found, for real love always endures.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">1890. One summer evening changes everything for Sidney and Leonard Bellingham when their beloved mother disappears from the family home, Halesham Hall. Left with their bitter father, they are taught to trust no one but themselves, with brother pitted against brother to see who is worthy of inheriting the Bellingham Board Games company. But the series of twisted games they are forced to play will have far reaching consequences.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">1920. Phoebe Bellingham arrives at Halesham Hall determined to solve the puzzles that will allow her to claim back the Bellingham inheritance. But this legacy involves more than one secret, and soon Phoebe realises that the stakes are higher than she ever could have imagined.</span></i></p><p><span style="color: #1e1915; font-family: Proxima Nova, Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I always thoroughly enjoy Jenni's books so was so very excited when a review copy of this book dropped onto my kindle as I knew I was in for a treat and my expectations were more than adequately met.</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #1e1915; font-family: Proxima Nova, Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I loved that this book flitted back and forth between two time periods over the course of the book as secrets were unveiled and revealed. It kept me guessing throughout and I found myself not wanting to put it down as I needed to know what would happen next. </span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif;">I thoroughly enjoyed the characterisation in this book and the contrasts in people met. They really felt real with me either wanting to get behind them and feel for them like I did with Phoebe and the Bellingham boys or really just hate them as I with the Bellingham's father when you started to see just how petty and awful he was. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif;">The house itself needs as mention as almost a character in its own right. It is just an unusual and quirky building which and you could feel the unease under which those in the house lived under.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif;">I won't say too much about how the story unfolds as I wouldn't do it justice and wouldn't want to spoil the surprises but needless to say if you are reading this you need to make sure you clear some time as you won't want to stop until you've finished it all.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915; font-family: "Proxima Nova", Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-51921843580725671182022-08-17T09:00:00.024+01:002022-08-17T09:00:00.232+01:00Blog Tour: Something Certain, Maybe by Sara Barnard<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge2-_p5Fzv8RI-gpq3eqht_BCAauGEVAy1N1_F2Q2jvLmUu-iltF8n38mfM6er4Cd1gs-VwQH9Jl4JpkgUVSx8XYpYFed-HGiF7zrKhqVPm2RX89WK8xdxPyvQ3uBqtgLKRQfkAnp7n9_FW93WI59c9JmX9FTmooM5yHhrTYT0JRwdII0hXu8CHf1YhQ/s1250/Something%20Certain%20Maybe,%20Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="825" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge2-_p5Fzv8RI-gpq3eqht_BCAauGEVAy1N1_F2Q2jvLmUu-iltF8n38mfM6er4Cd1gs-VwQH9Jl4JpkgUVSx8XYpYFed-HGiF7zrKhqVPm2RX89WK8xdxPyvQ3uBqtgLKRQfkAnp7n9_FW93WI59c9JmX9FTmooM5yHhrTYT0JRwdII0hXu8CHf1YhQ/s320/Something%20Certain%20Maybe,%20Cover.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Rosie is ready for her life to begin, because nothing says new life like going to university. After years of waiting and working hard, she's finally on the road that will secure her future.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Except university turns out to be not what she hoped or imagined, and although she's not exactly </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">unhappy</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> – really! – she might be a little bit worried that she doesn't really like her course much. Or her flatmates. Or really... anything? But it's normal to be homesick (right?) and everything will have settled in a month or two, and it's totally fine that her friends seem so much happier than she is, and that the doctors don’t seem to know what’s wrong with her mother.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">But then she meets Jade, and everything starts to look a little brighter. At least, it does if she’s </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">only</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> looking at Jade. But is first love enough when everything else is falling apart?</span></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq7Y_KnoFEMx3vKRv4uyMglpMRO02zyKUwAbFYE8RQWK_z73G7HDmrfOa2rKqkklht8k6OTEy2nlM4UcrPLs14fdMvfEH8ZBXIrenHDzDrd68zb5d20jfIRYaNcErtbjuXrFaYOE71gKnA7l2VHvuL4dyLPWPVuHp6SR9gMBcPGUMKipXgA-aUM-bwLw/s1080/Something%20Certain%20Maybe%20blog%20tour%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq7Y_KnoFEMx3vKRv4uyMglpMRO02zyKUwAbFYE8RQWK_z73G7HDmrfOa2rKqkklht8k6OTEy2nlM4UcrPLs14fdMvfEH8ZBXIrenHDzDrd68zb5d20jfIRYaNcErtbjuXrFaYOE71gKnA7l2VHvuL4dyLPWPVuHp6SR9gMBcPGUMKipXgA-aUM-bwLw/s320/Something%20Certain%20Maybe%20blog%20tour%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>I am delighted to be sharing my review for Something Certain, Maybe as part of the blog tour to celebrate the release of this fab book.</p><p>Long time readers of my blog will know I am a UKYA fan. I have been for years and Sara Barnard's books are absolutely my sort of read. This book can be read as a stand alone title but does feature a main character Rosie who has popped up in two of Sara's previous titles Beautiful Broken Things (focused on Rosie's friend Caddy's story) and Fierce Fragile Hearts (focused on Rosie's friend Suzanne's story) and I would recommend reading all three because they are all brilliant.</p><p>There were several things I loved about this book. To start with I loved the fact that the majority of the book is set in and around The University of East Anglia which I loved from a <strike>geeky </strike>nostalgia point of view as I also went there to university. It meant the locations in the book were so vivid to me and completely brought alive the charm of the place which I think will really stand out whether you know the area or not.</p><p>I really like that Rosie doesn't have the typical university experience. A lot of books focus on the many great things to come out of the university experience such as making loads of friends and loving the course you are on but what about those people who don't experience those things. Rosie's experiences of finding being away hard and university being a really lonely are really realistic. It made the book so relatable.</p><p>I liked the relationships in the book. It was obviously brilliant to get more of the Caddy, Suzanne, Rosie friendship and seeing how life experiences had developed their relationship further. I also loved the romance in the book because it is really sweet. I also liked seeing how going to university changed the relationship between Rosie and her mum.</p><p>All in all a book I really loved from an author I can't get enough of. Highly recommended.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQEvl_ECJa0Mr9ute13bA06US7JHuBouAGbZFjbiEmOKOVwVLXdXbuQJkI5AE0ZKLdAcgmTenoBmWmMLVoWX94MTesiMXW-poLkhdvut3_OMxPyZw2mjndgOglqFoxRlO4_XF3-ggqYHwyLII7-OEO4Va9iObzhFp57YpLHS3-q-mQwOxbDcTNHbuXrA/s900/Barnard-Reissues-AmazonA+900%20pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="900" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQEvl_ECJa0Mr9ute13bA06US7JHuBouAGbZFjbiEmOKOVwVLXdXbuQJkI5AE0ZKLdAcgmTenoBmWmMLVoWX94MTesiMXW-poLkhdvut3_OMxPyZw2mjndgOglqFoxRlO4_XF3-ggqYHwyLII7-OEO4Va9iObzhFp57YpLHS3-q-mQwOxbDcTNHbuXrA/w640-h213/Barnard-Reissues-AmazonA+900%20pink.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-8052145172313935522022-05-16T09:00:00.021+01:002022-05-16T09:00:00.233+01:00Blog Tour: One Moonlit Night by Rachel Hore<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRO9ibNoeMjP4YKcEDnRl-n82n7WQJqbOD5LralTlS3btmFpq4djHszm5KU1A557BXdeXQhbJReNwv0WnpKTWpQIFb60NkZ7gAj-BbMVBbfm90g1yoYbuZ9XO8OCZrjUVtUVXls4-QVMbVDsM2RaIzkJCyw6UAZTR7dt3QbF6yFGHZwbx6c-XhFLFf_Q/s900/one-moonlit-night-9781471187223_xlg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><i><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="573" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRO9ibNoeMjP4YKcEDnRl-n82n7WQJqbOD5LralTlS3btmFpq4djHszm5KU1A557BXdeXQhbJReNwv0WnpKTWpQIFb60NkZ7gAj-BbMVBbfm90g1yoYbuZ9XO8OCZrjUVtUVXls4-QVMbVDsM2RaIzkJCyw6UAZTR7dt3QbF6yFGHZwbx6c-XhFLFf_Q/s320/one-moonlit-night-9781471187223_xlg.jpg" width="204" /></i></a></div><i><br /></i><p></p><p><i><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Accept it, he is dead.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">No, it’s not true.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">It is. Everyone thinks so except you.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Forced to leave their family home in London after it is bombed, Maddie and her two young daughters take refuge at Knyghton, the beautiful country house in Norfolk where Maddie’s husband Philip spent the summers of his childhood.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">But Philip is gone, believed to have been killed in action in northern France. Despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, Maddie refuses to give up hope that she and Philip will some day be reunited.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Arriving at Knyghton, Maddie feels closer to her missing husband, but she soon realises that there’s a reason Philip has never spoken to her about his past. Something happened at Knyghton one summer years before. Something that involved Philip, his cousin Lyle and a mysterious young woman named Flora.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Maddie’s curiosity turns to desperation as she tries to discover the truth, but no one will speak about what happened all those years ago, and no one will reassure her that Philip will ever return to Knyghton.</span></i></p><p>I am delighted to be taking part on the blog tour for Rachel Hore's newest novel today. I love historical fiction so Rachel's books always are a bit of a treat for me and when I found out this one was set in Norfolk during WWII I was even more excited to read it.</p><p>One Moonlit Night is the story of Maddie. Maddie's husband is missing presumed dead early and after being bombed out of her house she decides to return to his family's ancestral home to find out more about her husband's past.</p><p>I thoroughly enjoyed this book for several reasons. I liked the focus it gave to those left behind during war and the impact that then had on them. I loved finding out all the secrets that surrounded Philip and finding them out with Maddie. I enjoyed the will he, won't he return part of the storyline which kept me guessing right through the book with Maddie so convinced he would return when all the odds and everyone else was convinced he would not return. I also enjoyed the setting of war time Norfolk and seeing the places I am so familiar with during a time period which continues to fascinate me.</p><p>If you love historical fiction you will adore this book</p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-18230032368799533082022-01-08T08:00:00.037+00:002022-01-08T08:00:00.241+00:00Blog Tour: The Little Shop of Hidden Treasures<p>I am delighted to be hosting a spot on the blog tour for Holly Hepburn' newest book. I love Holly's books and was so very excited to receive an early copy of this to read.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9D_l7OPqS0m9xqQg5ssigtft64asm0V8KL_9D9_39Dc0c_wjoC1btsFBVKzud2MgtRXimidAH3VuiyTCcJeptbqFNSKP_kGJ54NI4GDZwB1yd1FvX0dbDUfV3T2ewUijGIsplVwYI3sNrOQtolRex-14rkGfDCN_CyuWmVHIzWIlfisXre9cPS4jC_g=s475" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="308" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9D_l7OPqS0m9xqQg5ssigtft64asm0V8KL_9D9_39Dc0c_wjoC1btsFBVKzud2MgtRXimidAH3VuiyTCcJeptbqFNSKP_kGJ54NI4GDZwB1yd1FvX0dbDUfV3T2ewUijGIsplVwYI3sNrOQtolRex-14rkGfDCN_CyuWmVHIzWIlfisXre9cPS4jC_g=s320" width="207" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>In short, as I fully expected, I loved this book and enjoyed every single page. I loved the setting and it has definitely added York onto my list of destinations to visit at some point in the not too distant future (fingers crossed). I really loved the main character and getting behind her as she started to find her feet again and carve out a new life for herself. I also loved both of the love interests. I mean seriously picking between a hot Indiana Jones or a gorgeous and lovely jeweller who is sensitive and great with his hands. That's the kind of problem we all want. </p><p>I loved the history mystery thread to the story. I was as intrigued as Hope was and as fascinated as she was the more she found out about it. I love unravelling the story with her and was desperate to know more.</p><p>I definitely have to give a shout out to the shop as a character in itself. I loved it and desperately want it to be a real place so I can a) visit and b) never leave so they have to employ me too! Such a lovely read. I really didn't want it to end and I can't wait for more from Holly in the future.</p><p><br /></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-80198875430754995932021-10-22T09:00:00.039+01:002021-10-22T09:00:00.271+01:00Blog Tour: Underneath the Christmas Tree by Heidi Swain<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdkYFdYM9nsR4icEP1fQ8tW9Q-5foWhTAvvGJzp7m5Qd4Si8RUNLH7K-VlMkbgSXzCoFmXViMqi0ty_Li56J-7ZFfP-kSTvmUvLVOiEKr2Fkn-b6VQzdfUX6hcgrrS2bA6oY2-lPd09Xwm/s900/underneath-the-christmas-tree-9781471195853_xlg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="591" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdkYFdYM9nsR4icEP1fQ8tW9Q-5foWhTAvvGJzp7m5Qd4Si8RUNLH7K-VlMkbgSXzCoFmXViMqi0ty_Li56J-7ZFfP-kSTvmUvLVOiEKr2Fkn-b6VQzdfUX6hcgrrS2bA6oY2-lPd09Xwm/s320/underneath-the-christmas-tree-9781471195853_xlg.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Wynter’s Trees is the home of Christmas. For the people of Wynmouth it’s where they get their family Christmas tree, and where Christmas truly comes to life.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">But for Liza Wynter, it’s a millstone around her neck. It was her father’s pride and joy but now he’s gone, she can’t have anything to do with it. Until her father’s business partner decides to retire and she must go back to handle the transition to his son Ned.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">When Liza arrives, she discovers a much-loved business that’s flourishing under Ned’s stewardship. And she’s happy to stay and help for the Christmas season, but then she has other plans. But will the place where she grew up make her change her mind? And can it weave its Christmas cheer around her heart…?</span></i></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Once again I am delighted to be part of the blog tour to celebrate the release of Heidi's latest book. I love Heidi's book. They ooze charm and an afternoon spent with one is always a treat. I picked this up after a particularly rubbish week and reading it just made me feel better as I snuggled up under my blanket to read it. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">There are several things that make Heidi's books special. The setting is definitely one of those things. Returning to the different towns and villages in her books always feel like you are going home. They feel real and I'm always a bit sad knowing that I can't actually go to them in person. The communities within the books are vibrant and Wynmouth is no exception. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">I was particularly looking forward to this one as Heidi returns back to the Norfolk coast this Christmas.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"> I really enjoyed being back and seeing the cameos from characters we've previously spent time with.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Heidi's books are always full of lovely food and lots of crafty things which are both things I really love. I recommend reading with a whole variety of snacks on hand and by the end I really wanted to start on my Christmas gift making picking up the knitting needles and getting chutney and jam batches on the go.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">However the thing I love most about Heidi's books is the main characters and the inevitable romance that blooms between them. I loved meeting Liza. Liza has had it bad over the previous years after losing her dad and being back at his beloved Christmas tree farm is really hard for her. I loved following her as she started to fall back in love with the farm and as her relationship developed with various members of the community around her but particularly so with Ned. Ned is a gorgeous romantic hero and I loved him entirely in this book</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">My advice? Get this ordered and onto your festive TBR piles. It is a real treat waiting to happen.</span></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-25126924960092851742021-07-15T08:00:00.001+01:002021-07-15T08:00:00.257+01:00Blog Tour: Home by Penny Parkes<p> I am really pleased to be taking park in the blog tour for Penny Parkes new book home. As you'll see below I really loved this book so much so it is a strong contender for my book of the year.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpj9mpWweexuwuuYjhUsPIqL-1ui1aXiPVWSjpW7h6DsB6-R2hw0KZ2uE2BSmE7AuUTX3kHOmW4n5sZkd_5GmIAIOV0wbYeGVH2rVhvG3S4w8dOytdBBtLdu2BP2MqYbr73IRNK-PuYlM/s900/home-9781471180163_xlg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="560" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpj9mpWweexuwuuYjhUsPIqL-1ui1aXiPVWSjpW7h6DsB6-R2hw0KZ2uE2BSmE7AuUTX3kHOmW4n5sZkd_5GmIAIOV0wbYeGVH2rVhvG3S4w8dOytdBBtLdu2BP2MqYbr73IRNK-PuYlM/s320/home-9781471180163_xlg.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Anna Wilson travels the world as a professional housesitter – stepping into other people’s lives - caring for their homes, pets and sometimes even neighbours. Living vicariously.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">But all Anna has ever really wanted is a home of her own – a proper one, filled with family and love and happy memories. If only she knew where to start.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Hind, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Growing up in foster care, she always envied her friends their secure and carefree lives, their certainty and confidence. And, while those same friends may have become her family of choice, Anna is still stuck in that nomadic cycle, looking for answers, trying to find the courage to put down roots and find a place to call home.</span></i></p><p>My thoughts</p><p>I love Penny Parkes books. I pretty much binge read her previous series back to back and was therefore incredibly excited when a review copy of home arrived onto my kindle like a special treat.</p><p>I absolutely adored this book. It was so heartfelt and thoughtful. If you need something that is going to make you really feel something this book is absolutely the place to start.</p><p>I loved the idea of the main storyline and how the main character was a house sitter with no real roots. I really enjoyed getting to know Anna who was oh so relatable but also someone who you just wanted to pick out of the story and give a hug to especially as you get more into the why and wherefores of why she and why she chose to live the way she did. </p><p>One theme this book covers so very well is that of friendship and how those special friends in our lives can become the family we chose and deserved that title in some case far more than blood relatives. I particularly loved Anna friendship with her best friend because of just how supportive and lovely they were of each other. All two often adult friendships can be a touch negative in fiction and it was lovely to see two friends who clearly loved and supported each other as much as they did.</p><p>All in all this book was so brilliantly done and the best Penny Parkes to date. It is definitely one of those books that I'll continue to recommend and buy copies of for people for years to come</p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-35317055093577425702021-06-06T11:29:00.006+01:002021-06-06T11:36:16.334+01:00May favourites<p>This past month there have been four stand out reads for me in a month. I loved them all.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><u>The sight of you by Holly Miller</u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjYgm4Pj25FLJeD3MwdJuUSQFTAjJ39ojAFH6BACkl3gkPkNwfq-mwsftAk6xmSNHdU4cIBOQgEPtFAxsy9o-7-aVAXxDN1DCbUU1FH80nPIFB1gWB7JJHzJtn4iLV0yBBDNOq8KjC0SSq/s475/49562636._SY475_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="309" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjYgm4Pj25FLJeD3MwdJuUSQFTAjJ39ojAFH6BACkl3gkPkNwfq-mwsftAk6xmSNHdU4cIBOQgEPtFAxsy9o-7-aVAXxDN1DCbUU1FH80nPIFB1gWB7JJHzJtn4iLV0yBBDNOq8KjC0SSq/s320/49562636._SY475_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;"><i>Joel is afraid of the future.<br />Since he was a child he's been haunted by dreams about the people he loves. Visions of what's going to happen - the good and the bad. And the only way to prevent them is to never let anyone close to him again.</i></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;"><i>Callie can't let go of the past.<br />Since her best friend died, Callie's been lost. She knows she needs to be more spontaneous and live a bigger life. She just doesn't know how to find a way back to the person who used to have those dreams.</i></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;"><i>Joel and Callie both need a reason to start living for today.<br />And though they're not looking for each other, from the moment they meet it feels like the start of something life-changing.</i></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;"><i>Until Joel has a vision of how it's going to end . . .</i></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;">This book was incredible. It is one of those books that I can't even really say that much about because I worry about spoiling it for anyone as so much of the book revolves about things that came as a surprise. The romance in this story is so pure and emotional. You can see exactly why Callie falls completely for Joel and you root for them from the start and over the course of the book you feel absolutely everything with them. I loved every page and cannot wait for Holly's next book.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;">Thank you Hodder and Stoughton for the review copy</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;"><u><b>Heartstopper Volume four by Alice Oseman</b></u></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvj_pcSIK8H2Twq2PNYyMizQ4XffQ4K5OTI1CFAuZmbOeqar_dIZIkTG_KiKRtGwMWjh1ZmQN8N0hSEBPCLTNByWvfWZQYO-wGFA3LtBhmAdJYFS_l6x9RffWHTkjdOsIucS2BhWQxBPB/s475/51574372._SY475_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><i><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="311" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvj_pcSIK8H2Twq2PNYyMizQ4XffQ4K5OTI1CFAuZmbOeqar_dIZIkTG_KiKRtGwMWjh1ZmQN8N0hSEBPCLTNByWvfWZQYO-wGFA3LtBhmAdJYFS_l6x9RffWHTkjdOsIucS2BhWQxBPB/s320/51574372._SY475_.jpg" /></i></a></div><i><br /></i><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;"><i><br /></i></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;"><i>Charlie didn't think Nick could ever like him back, but now they're officially boyfriends. Charlie's beginning to feel ready to say those three little words: I love you.<br /><br />Nick's been feeling the same, but he's got a lot on his mind - not least coming out to his dad, and the fact that Charlie might have an eating disorder.<br /><br />As summer turns to autumn and a new school year begins, Charlie and Nick are about to learn a lot about what love means.<br /><br />Heartstopper is about love, friendship, loyalty and mental illness. It encompasses all the small stories of Nick and Charlie's lives that together make up something larger, which speaks to all of us.</i><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;">Contemporary UKYA will forever be my bag. I crave it and devour it quickly despite always saying I'm to savour every one. I cannot get enough (which is particularly annoying when there seems to be less and less of it available - but that's another blog post). I've been awaiting the arrival of this book for ages and was utterly delighted when my preorder appeared. As expected I devoured it in one sitting and loved every single page. This series is just so very lovely and this instalment was just as lovely as previous ones with some really hard hitting topics included and handled in a sensitive and thoughtful way. I loved it.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;"><b><u>Tremendous Things by Susin Nielsen</u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNxTyMnzJ8CRBm4Nl5c8_dr7UMZxOiE77rp2fMhLNC4FqrdBsgATX_vaTjxzyVoDQoxU3LRasWPpcAuUxgM3o4nEPS2rmWeOdM75-oCu9Pw6zB7UU5Wg3uOBmCPvvDxOl44nazs9G6MBT3/s475/57587449._SY475_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="302" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNxTyMnzJ8CRBm4Nl5c8_dr7UMZxOiE77rp2fMhLNC4FqrdBsgATX_vaTjxzyVoDQoxU3LRasWPpcAuUxgM3o4nEPS2rmWeOdM75-oCu9Pw6zB7UU5Wg3uOBmCPvvDxOl44nazs9G6MBT3/s320/57587449._SY475_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;"><i>We all have moments that define us. For the comically clueless Wilbur, his moment happened on the first day of middle school, when someone shared his private letter with the entire student body. It revealed some of Wilbur's innermost embarrassing thoughts that no one else should ever know.</i></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 18px 0px; padding: 0px;"><i>Now it's the start of ninth grade and Wilbur hasn't been able to escape that major humiliation. His good friend Alex stuck by him, but Alex doesn't have as much time since he started dating Fabrizio. Luckily, Wil can confide in his best friend: his elderly neighbor Sal. Also, Wil's in the school band, where he plays the triangle. They're doing an exchange program with students from Paris, and Wilbur's billet, Charlie, a tall, chic young woman who plays the ukulele and burps with abandon, captures his heart. Charlie likes him, but only as a friend. So Alex, Fabrizio and Sal host a Queer Eye-style intervention to get Wil in shape and to build his confidence so he can impress Charlie when their band visits Paris, and just maybe replace humiliation with true romance in the City of Love.</i></p><table border="0" cellspacing="1" class="myActivity" style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Lato, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; table-layout: fixed; width: 100%px;"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="readable reviewText" style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; line-height: 21px;">I really loved this book. I always know I am in for a treat when I get a new book from Susin Nielsen and this was no exception. It’s a perfect example of all the things Susin does so very well. <br /><br />It had brilliant characters and relationships. I loved the main character Wilbur and the whole host of people around him. I loved his two mothers, his two best friends, one of which being his elderly neighbour, and the main love interest in Charlie. <br /><br />Susin's books and always funny and heartfelt. I loved what it had to say about being yourself, the importance of good friends and standing up to bullies. I loved some of the one liners from various characters. I loved how Wilbur loved playing Carcassonne and how he went to old ladies aqua aerobics with his elderly best friend. I loved How his queer eye intervention helped him to see the person he could be without changing him as a person.<br /><br />In short I loved it and didn't want to put it down.<br /><br />Thank you Andersen Press for the review copy<br /><br /><b><u>Tunnel 29 by Helena Merriman<br /></u></b><br /><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-b3KBH0G7K8dv3src6PGQMelAAghmcyf6LUJoBPgyCDp6vOXeR_BXSR6kjOIONxEDt9_ObS0npuO0pk_tHlc3dwoDRhVdfBRr8SEGFEy0NSsUl8USl9o4l7QIt4JdhQmAb1tcDFitHzs/s675/hbg-title-9781529334012-17.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="439" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-b3KBH0G7K8dv3src6PGQMelAAghmcyf6LUJoBPgyCDp6vOXeR_BXSR6kjOIONxEDt9_ObS0npuO0pk_tHlc3dwoDRhVdfBRr8SEGFEy0NSsUl8USl9o4l7QIt4JdhQmAb1tcDFitHzs/s320/hbg-title-9781529334012-17.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;">He's just escaped from one of the world's most brutal regimes. <br /><br />Now, he decides to tunnel back in.<br /><br />It's summer, 1962, and Joachim Rudolph, a student, is digging a tunnel under the Berlin Wall. Waiting on the other side in East Berlin - dozens of men, women and children; all willing to risk everything to escape.<br /><br />From the award-winning creator of the acclaimed BBC Radio 4 podcast, Tunnel 29 is the true story of the most remarkable escape tunnel dug under the Berlin Wall. Drawing on hundreds of hours of interviews with the survivors, and thousands of pages of Stasi documents, Helena Merriman brilliantly reveals the stranger-than-fiction story of the ingenious group of student-diggers, the glamorous red-haired messenger, the American News network which films the escape, and the Stasi spy who betrays it. For what Joachim doesn't know as he burrows closer to East Germany, is that the escape operation has been infiltrated. As the escapees prepare to crawl through the cold, wet darkness, above them, the Stasi are closing in.<br /><br />Tunnel 29 is about what happens when people lose their freedom - and how some will do anything to win it back.<br /></i><br style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;" /><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;">This was a brilliant read. A prime example of why I still an more than a little bit of history obsessed because this showcases one of those incredible true life stories which are almost too extraordinary to be real except that it definitely is.</span><br style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;" /><br style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;" /><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;">I was familiar with the story of tunnel 29 from the intrigue podcast but this book was no less engaging for having know about it previously. I liked how it set the scene a bit more for the reading giving you the history of the events from the end of World War Two and the early years of The Cold War which led to the Berlin Wall being built in the early 1960s.</span><br style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;" /><br style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;" /><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;">The main story of tunnel 29 is fascinating when you read about the lengths in which the tunnellers went to and the great risk being involved posed not only to themselves but also to their friends and families. Even more extraordinary was the fact that they were filmed by an American new network.</span><br style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;" /><br style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;" /><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;">I can't recommend this highly enough. If you love history, spy stories, anything to do with post war Europe and the Cold War you'll love this even if you aren't normally a non fiction reader.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;">Thank you Hodder and Stoughton for the review copy</span></div><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-90884152236968598432021-05-03T08:52:00.001+01:002021-05-03T08:52:00.248+01:00An update and April favourites<div>Long time readers might have noticed that I've struggled to get on here and blog about much for a good long while. Last year was obviously an awful one for everyone. I am very lucky in a lot of ways that my family and friends have all remained safe over the pandemic but I did lose one of my lovely friends under the saddest circumstances last summer and it has and continues to hit me hard. Added to that the usual pressures that come with my day job have just intensified exponentially over the last year. All of those things combined has led to me struggling to keep to any kind of decent sleep pattern and thus my ability to plough through books and write about them in any kind of coherent fashion has severally diminished compared to the halcyon days when I started blogging and was getting through and reviewing 200+ books a year.</div><div><br /></div><div>So here we are in 2021 and into my 11th year of blogging and I'm hoping this is a new start and with me making a proper return to my little blog and finding a bit of myself again. Thank you to all the publishers who have helped to get me back here me back through offering me blog tour slots, review copies and inviting me to events particularly so to the lovely Alice at Harpercollins and Meggie at David Fickling (who quite frankly got more information than they needed when they emailed me and were so very kind sensitive in their replies which was appreciated more than I can say) and SJV at S&S (who invited me to the loveliest event in December that made me realise that all this bookish geekery is something I need to feel myself).</div><div><br /></div><div>So I can't promise I'll be back here as regularly as I was. The day job is still ridiculous so I'll still be relying on a combo of twitter, instagram and goodreads but at the very least I'm going to sharing my favourite reads each month, taking on a few more blog tours for my favourite authors and we'll see where we go from there.</div><div><br /></div><div>So starting as I mean to go on. Here are my favourite reads of April 2021</div><div><br /></div><div><u><b>Lives like mine by Eva Verde</b></u></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQRz_HSbvOI1ZdWZ6hy8q6mbTgu2QLt2jhSc-Krj1D82aCyPuxy3ex070rDwIpQ84M3CTcyQbUSwGzExR5xuqB2pzPPGc3oqVWC6l4zVdtb_zIR7QJz1f3g-b6Ux-14z-KeFr9xScBz-bg/s475/55467881._SY475_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="309" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQRz_HSbvOI1ZdWZ6hy8q6mbTgu2QLt2jhSc-Krj1D82aCyPuxy3ex070rDwIpQ84M3CTcyQbUSwGzExR5xuqB2pzPPGc3oqVWC6l4zVdtb_zIR7QJz1f3g-b6Ux-14z-KeFr9xScBz-bg/s320/55467881._SY475_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div><i><b style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Mother</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">... </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">To three small children, their heritage dual like hers.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Daughter... </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">To a mother who immigrated to make a better life but has been rejected by her chosen country.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Wife... </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">To a man who loves her but who will not defend her to his intolerant family.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Woman… </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">W</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">hose roles now define her and trap her in a life she no longer recognises…</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Meet Monica, the flawed heroine at the heart of LIVES LIKE MINE.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">With her three children in school, Monica finds herself wondering if this is all there is. Despite all the effort and the smiles, in the mirror she sees a woman hollowed out from putting everyone else first, tolerating her in-laws’ intolerance, and wondering if she has a right to complain when she’s living the life that she has created for herself.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Then along comes Joe, a catalyst for change in the guise of a flirtatious parent on the school run. Though the sudden spark of their affair is hedonistic and oh so cathartic, Joe soon offers a friendship that shows Monica how to resurrect and honour the parts of her identity that she has long suppressed. He is able to do for Monica what Dan has never managed to, enabling her both to face up to a past of guilty secrets and family estrangements, and to redefine her future.</span></i></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u>Why I loved it</u></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u><br /></u></span></div><div>I thought this book was excellent. Firstly for the way in which it discusses racism and shows you a first hand example of it affecting the main character Monica's life. I defy anyone to read it and not feel angry and frustrated on her behalf. Secondly because I think the book really shows the various ways in which women are stretched on a daily basis trying to fulfil so many roles all at once whilst being judged every single time one of the many and varied plates they are spinning wobbles. It felt very relevant and relatable</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Sunrise by the sea by Jenny Colgan</u></b></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlgyty9mUKRp-PxpiwrQJ83svP-cd8W33mBqQjvVnSr8QDs-jELulOQjFy7dhcwnR7nJZ_F_kCyXn1wm5xKfohonC_uIx_2VAMuAoVIC7fPRhNRJqGQZGRwFb0RZW-hUfPBoeh4PrcDqZ/s475/55660109._SY475_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="309" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlgyty9mUKRp-PxpiwrQJ83svP-cd8W33mBqQjvVnSr8QDs-jELulOQjFy7dhcwnR7nJZ_F_kCyXn1wm5xKfohonC_uIx_2VAMuAoVIC7fPRhNRJqGQZGRwFb0RZW-hUfPBoeh4PrcDqZ/s320/55660109._SY475_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><u><br /></u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">New York Times bestselling author Jenny Colgan returns to the setting of her beloved Little Beach Street Bakery series for a timely and heartfelt novel set in a Cornish seaside village.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Marisa Rosso can't understand why everyone else is getting on with their lives as she still struggles to get over the death of her beloved grandfather, back home in Italy. Everyone loses grandparents, right? Why is she taking it so badly?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Retreating further and further from normal life, she moves to the end of the earth--the remote tidal island of Mount Polbearne, at the foot of Cornwall, hoping for peace and solitude, whilst carrying on her job as a registrar, dealing with births, weddings, and deaths, even as she feels life is passing her by.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Unfortunately--or fortunately?--the solitude she craves proves elusive. Between her noisy Russian piano-teaching neighbor, the bustle and community spirit of the tiny village struggling back to life after the quarantine, and the pressing need to help save the local bakery, can Marisa find her joy again at the end of the world?</span></i></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u><br /></u></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u>Why I loved it</u></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">I won't say too much about this one as it isn't out for a good while yet but I will say that I loved it. I love Jenny's books and being back on the island with Poppy and with the new characters was a real treat. I inhaled this and finished it pretty much in one sitting.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><b><u>What we're scared of by Keren David</u></b></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigwBSvEvYnNVOXx3QCmBCebwwxVKvBPmldjJyEJnmLVb4AiJoCnPfZCPB09q7YeoGas5bNCIhNjNG0psBh5KUvxq6iMG4C40Y-DCdcvxS-g41jQMdcm3j6dlY5xwWY0ZEB-m-a2nNZwGH/s475/56494361._SY475_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="311" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigwBSvEvYnNVOXx3QCmBCebwwxVKvBPmldjJyEJnmLVb4AiJoCnPfZCPB09q7YeoGas5bNCIhNjNG0psBh5KUvxq6iMG4C40Y-DCdcvxS-g41jQMdcm3j6dlY5xwWY0ZEB-m-a2nNZwGH/s320/56494361._SY475_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><u><br /></u></b></span></div><div><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Evie and Lottie are twin sisters, but they couldn't be more different.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Evie's sharp and funny. Lottie's a day-dreamer. Evie's the fighter, Lottie's the peace-maker. What they do have in common is their Jewishness - even though the family isn't religious. When their mother gets a high-profile job and is targeted by antisemitic trolls on social media, the girls brush it off at first - but then the threats start getting uglier. . .</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">What We're Scared Of is a taut thriller, a tale of sibling friendship and rivalry - and a searing look at what happens when you scratch beneath the surface.</span></i></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><u>Why I loved it</u></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><u><br /></u></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">This book is so important. It has clear messages about modern day anti-Semitism and discusses the impact it is still having in the UK. This is so incredibly important and something that needs to be discussed with young people whom this book is targeting. I teach about the holocaust to teenagers and having a book like this set in contemporary Britain will provide a brilliant follow on for me to recommend after we have finished studying it to show young people that the holocaust isn't just something that happened long ago and couldn't happen again. Particularly so as the number of survivors who are still with us and able to tell the world about their stories for themselves is becoming smaller over time.</span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><u><b>When the beat drops by Anna Hecker</b></u></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZlA9SV0V-xmuUPH9zZhltlUxBdZ0XR4eDfCziV8zpXNOGjsExT96zJAHXjYkE-PVkRkTkexEBYdjOPFOz_4fAsGXdsRvwhyhQKoXDa1KLivUupgZVqLNYUGHJgNPyCJaj0JTZnp-lkQ8/s475/35217468._SY475_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZlA9SV0V-xmuUPH9zZhltlUxBdZ0XR4eDfCziV8zpXNOGjsExT96zJAHXjYkE-PVkRkTkexEBYdjOPFOz_4fAsGXdsRvwhyhQKoXDa1KLivUupgZVqLNYUGHJgNPyCJaj0JTZnp-lkQ8/s320/35217468._SY475_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Seventeen-year-old Mira has always danced to her own beat. A music prodigy in a family of athletes, she’d rather play trumpet than party—and with her audition to a prestigious jazz conservatory just around the corner (and her two best friends at music camp without her), she plans to spend the summer focused on jazz and nothing else.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">She only goes to the warehouse party in a last-ditch effort to bond with her older sister. Instead, she falls in love with dance music, DJing…and Derek, a gorgeous promoter who thinks he can make her a star. Suddenly trumpet practice and old friendships are taking a backseat to packed dance floors, sun-soaked music festivals, outsized personalities, and endless beats.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">But when a devastating tragedy plunges her golden summer into darkness, Mira discovers just how little she knows about her new boyfriend, her old friends, and even her own sister. Music is what brought them together…but will it also tear them apart?</span></i></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u>Why I loved it</u></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u><br /></u></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">This book appealed to the part of me who loves to dance to something with a cracking beat ideally in a crowd so big that no one notices me. Sadly this hasn't happened in such a ridiculously long time and I was probably too old for clubbing even before this pandemic meant it wasn't an option anyway. It's a fun read with some serious themes and I really enjoyed it. Another one I devoured in one greedy sitting.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u><b>The Forbidden Promise by Lorna Cook</b></u></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnhqj-0g8OOKMugD8f6I5TLhBrx1aJdA5wjc2r2j8GfzBgqyiAHPXrHuXGhyphenhyphengH_AwrhQTiMicr497PXdkPoKO0EJWMVuINW3mvn2ya3VLchFHmNq6UiBC56x2h6EP0YYkbs9O8FVhQ2Fb/s346/45458784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="224" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnhqj-0g8OOKMugD8f6I5TLhBrx1aJdA5wjc2r2j8GfzBgqyiAHPXrHuXGhyphenhyphengH_AwrhQTiMicr497PXdkPoKO0EJWMVuINW3mvn2ya3VLchFHmNq6UiBC56x2h6EP0YYkbs9O8FVhQ2Fb/s320/45458784.jpg" /></a></div><br /><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">The stunning new story of love and secrets from the Number One bestselling author of The Forgotten Village</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Scotland, 1940:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">War rages across Europe, but Invermoray House is at peace. Until the night of Constance’s twenty-first birthday, when she’s the only person to see a Spitfire crash into the loch. Constance has been longing for adventure – but when she promises to keep the pilot hidden, what will it cost her?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">2020:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Kate arrives in the Highlands to turn Invermoray into a luxury bed-and-breakfast, only to find that the estate is more troubled than she’d imagined. But when Kate discovers the house has a murky history, with Constance McLay’s name struck from its records, she knows she can’t leave until the mystery is solved…</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">How will one promise change the fate of two women, decades apart?</span></i></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u>Why I loved it</u></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u><br /></u></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">I loved this book because it has got me back onto a bit of a historical fiction kick. I love history and all the various stories that come with it. I love modern history particularly and therefore this was definitely one of those books where I knew there was a good chance I'd love it. I certainly did. The setting and the romance was pitch perfect. I cannot wait to read more of Lorna's books</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u><b><br /></b></u></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><u><b>The Secrets of Saffron Hall by Clare Marchant</b></u></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZafFCQUaWMZNo1kZVPGWsB6CXSuitUmn7O77-BVzkZcmK9zlK6S6H_MT7kMmIc-9oBN9l1f3FTXkHDh8tDH5oZ15cioDiBB5Yn5-5iAfqNTEj3o2dzclDuaXR6WJfjvEzX1Oxi2r8ue_f/s475/52033920._SY475_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="305" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZafFCQUaWMZNo1kZVPGWsB6CXSuitUmn7O77-BVzkZcmK9zlK6S6H_MT7kMmIc-9oBN9l1f3FTXkHDh8tDH5oZ15cioDiBB5Yn5-5iAfqNTEj3o2dzclDuaXR6WJfjvEzX1Oxi2r8ue_f/s320/52033920._SY475_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><i><strong style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">1538</strong><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">New bride Eleanor impresses her husband by growing saffron, a spice more valuable than gold. His reputation in Henry VIII’s court soars – but fame and fortune come at a price, for the king’s favour will not last forever…</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><strong style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">2019</strong><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">When Amber discovers an ancient book in her grandfather’s home at Saffron Hall, the contents reveal a dark secret from the past. As she investigates, so unravels a forgotten tragic story and a truth that lies much closer to home than she could have imagined…</span></i><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><u>Why I loved it</u></div><div><br /></div><div>I've been meaning to read this book for ages and finally got to it last weekend. I'm not mad for early modern history unless it is done well and this really was. I loved the mystery behind the story. I loved both of the story threads, one set in the past and one contemporary. I loved the local setting. If you love historical fiction or contemporary novels you love this completely. Excitingly no sooner did I finish this book that Clare's next book popped up on netgalley (yes I have a kindle now. No I don't really like it at all. I blame the pandemic and the fact that my lovely local library has been shut or not doing reservations for most of the last year) so I have that lined up ready and waiting for me in the not too distant future.</div><div><br /></div>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-74634673565294463612021-05-02T08:48:00.004+01:002021-05-02T09:48:13.674+01:00Blog Tour: A Taste of home by Heidi Swain<p> I am delighted to be taking part in the blog tour for Heidi's latest book today.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwnLeoXm7913i6NxgQFYHADfe3uiinliQb0gDZD6LRbsuoSZKZAYEr7p2SGIoIXId7G2PoOtK9fOnTO_UB_-Li9V3K6ijaC_toVJ-8JtMIV9nOElGDsqYoyLmfr-qxCJoh0Rqxg0-GWhh/s475/54787516._SY475_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="312" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwnLeoXm7913i6NxgQFYHADfe3uiinliQb0gDZD6LRbsuoSZKZAYEr7p2SGIoIXId7G2PoOtK9fOnTO_UB_-Li9V3K6ijaC_toVJ-8JtMIV9nOElGDsqYoyLmfr-qxCJoh0Rqxg0-GWhh/s320/54787516._SY475_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Fliss Brown has grown up living with her mother on the Rossi family’s Italian fruit farm. But when her mother dies, Fliss finds out she has a family of her own, and heads back to England with Nonna Rossi’s recipe for cherry and almond tart and a piece of advice: connect with your family before it is too late…</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Fliss discovers that her estranged grandfather owns a fruit farm himself, on the outskirts of Wynbridge, and she arrives to find a farm that has fallen into disrepair. Using her knowledge gleaned from working on the Rossi farm and her desire to find out more about her past, Fliss rolls her sleeves up and gets stuck in. But what will she discover, and can she resurrect the farm’s glory days and find a taste of home…?</span></i></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Heidi's books are the sort of books that I have come to crave over the past few years. You start a new one knowing from the outset that they are going to be lovely and whilst they are always a new story you know there is going to be familiarity in the setting and in the secondary characters who pop up who are often those whose story you have already read. In the awful year we've all had I think we've all needed that bit of comfort and Heidi's books are always my comfort read. I save them up for weekends when I can lay in bed just that bit longer and gobble them up in one greedy sitting.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">A Taste of Home was no exception. In short I loved it completely and it will be a strong contender for my book of the year (lol as if there is ever one book of the year - I can never be that mean to all the booksies). </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">A Taste of home focuses on new character Fliss who has arrived in Wynbridge looking for her family who she has never met. The story that unfolds sees Fliss get to know her grandfather and and then she sets about trying to help him get his fruit farm back on track. I particularly loved seeing the relationship between the two develop over the course of the book and seeing Fliss find a home in a new foreign setting to her previous life.</span></p><p>I was the type of child who loved reading Enid Blyton's Famous Five books. While the adventure was all very well I particularly loved all the scenes featuring the food, the food they were eating on picnics, what they were planning to take camping and I think one of the reasons why I love Heidi's books (and this one particularly so) as it appeals to that bit of my brain completely. This book features so much food. When reading it I could almost taste the strawberries and I'm now desperately awaiting the summer season to kick in when I can get hold of some as there's nothing more joyless that imported ones. </p><p>I would be amiss if I didn't mention Elliot somewhere in this review. He's a certain kind of special and I loved every scene with him. I loved seeing the friendship between him and Fliss develop over the course of the book but I also particularly loved how he flips the stereotype of carers being a male motorbike riding carer. Seeing his work looking after Fliss's Grandfather was really lovely.</p><p>All in all I loved this book do yourself a favour and get hold of a copy.</p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-13580759964549525242021-03-24T08:00:00.002+00:002021-03-24T08:00:03.283+00:00Blog Tour author Guest Post: The inspiration behind No Country by Joe Brady and Patrice Aggs<p> Today I am delighted to have a guest post from author Joe Brady talking about the inspiration for the brilliant new graphic novel No Country</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDiqa-_vA9QXgm1MvMEl_78vQ4RxfuqEeM1n8V8JK2PC5d-tlT_okcbr64OvlvgjgYiYi8EOS-8zUnBldEKA2_R3EdRFEywv8sCHqkF5aiqMYd3V-OUEu5iokJHRSfdf8IvheYdFq9CfzG/s1200/Evo51KDXAAkeC65.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1192" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDiqa-_vA9QXgm1MvMEl_78vQ4RxfuqEeM1n8V8JK2PC5d-tlT_okcbr64OvlvgjgYiYi8EOS-8zUnBldEKA2_R3EdRFEywv8sCHqkF5aiqMYd3V-OUEu5iokJHRSfdf8IvheYdFq9CfzG/s320/Evo51KDXAAkeC65.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>The reasons for writing No Country were the situation with refugees from Syria, the nativist reaction to it in the UK and elsewhere, and what I felt was a general empathy deficit around the whole crisis.</p><p></p><p>The stories of refugees have filled the news in the UK for years, and they are so powerfully compelling. But when looking at them from our perspective, they all have the same narrative bias: people fleeing somewhere far away to come here. In this light, even the most sympathetic news stories could be read as saying to viewers that the UK is the destination. It establishes the illusion that this is the good place, and other places are falling apart. It creates an ‘us’ and a ‘them’ with a clear hierarchy - it makes us seem better than them, more successful than them, and gives us a permission structure to feel superior to other nations, and therefore the people from those nations. It gives us the choice: let them into our home or turn them away.</p><p></p><p>How this looks aesthetically from this viewpoint, is we see people with unknown customs and food and clothes and music, coming to a place that we know. Refugees leave places that feel foreign to us, and come to a place that feels familiar to us.</p><p></p><p>From the perspective of the people fleeing violence, it’s the exact opposite. They travel from the familiar to the unknown, from home to a strange country. So, I wanted to tell a story that follows that trajectory but inverts what is familiar: a story that starts in a collapsed warring state that feels like home, and moves to a functional society that feels strange and foreign. The goal is not to be every refugee story, let alone to replace even one of them. Rather, I’d like No Country to be a bridge to what’s happening in the world.</p><p></p><p>My hope is that it will help young readers look at refugee stories in the news with a higher level of empathy. I will feel that No Country is a success if a young reader, after finishing the book, looks at a real-life story about refugees and connects with them as individuals and ‘people’ rather than ‘refugees’. It’s not about saying the ‘us’ and the ‘them’ are the same because we’re not. We’re all different people, of course we’re different. A kid from England and a kid from Syria who was forced to escape violence will have had vastly different life experiences, and our experiences and our differences shape us. But those differences don’t entitle one of us to advantages denied to the other. There’s no reason that one should have security when the other does not. I wrote No Country in the hopes of making something that will help readers consider the people coming here in a more personal and compassionate way.</p><p><br /></p><p>Check out the rest of the tour </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujLczI4wleRYhs0I9iOqwjx64NEsxl3kKJBmBEIvywEl-TxgWR0KBrHAKghnsCvb69beZtqOtSn9yz-OL9WPkXhmct6UXxH_fLquuFUUgr1Ca6c1wqbxD_MKTyLd6cM-ODJVSAZr2rHQb/s1080/image001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujLczI4wleRYhs0I9iOqwjx64NEsxl3kKJBmBEIvywEl-TxgWR0KBrHAKghnsCvb69beZtqOtSn9yz-OL9WPkXhmct6UXxH_fLquuFUUgr1Ca6c1wqbxD_MKTyLd6cM-ODJVSAZr2rHQb/s320/image001.png" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-91853581031476008502020-07-08T14:56:00.001+01:002020-07-08T14:56:44.649+01:00updateIt's been a while blogger<div>
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just to let you know I'm still here. I'm still reading books. Probably more than ever since I actually bought a kindle in a panic after I ran out of library books but I'm not on here so much at the moment.</div>
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If you want to find me on the internet where I am chatting about the books I'm reading go to</div>
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Instagram or twitter @overflowingklc</div>
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goodreads kirsty at the overflowing library</div>
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Who know I might be back on here at some point - lockdown has increased my workload and my screen time a lot so not really feeling up to more time blogging but I am still reviewing and reading loads</div>
kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-29303186325568077442020-04-25T09:00:00.000+01:002020-04-25T09:00:00.334+01:00Blog tour: The Secret Seaside Escape by Heidi Swain<br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvUgH0F97oNYGWs2LP00VakCFDA2x6x4Hw37fvIxMl6KnMT8DpP1axfuc1qMTBpl19jJNNdgCz-B99fFB6fqIqzdti6n6zz6tyk-cd0QQIDaGpbR0ZddaECp70tYQJ9dl2iUk3ijjiQA9S/s1600/51199278._SY475_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="312" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvUgH0F97oNYGWs2LP00VakCFDA2x6x4Hw37fvIxMl6KnMT8DpP1axfuc1qMTBpl19jJNNdgCz-B99fFB6fqIqzdti6n6zz6tyk-cd0QQIDaGpbR0ZddaECp70tYQJ9dl2iUk3ijjiQA9S/s320/51199278._SY475_.jpg" width="210" /></a></b></div>
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<i><span id="freeText11871794716342678046">Escape to the seaside with the brand new novel from Heidi Swain, the Sunday Times bestselling author of feel-good women’s fiction!<br /> <br />
Tess Tyler needs a break. Weighed down by her high-pressure job and her
demanding father, she’s left little time to take care of herself. But
after a shocking discovery sends her spiralling, she flees to Wynmouth,
the seaside town she fell in love with as a child, to escape it all.<br /><br />
With its sandy beaches, stunning rock pools and welcoming community,
Tess feels like she can finally breathe again. And as she grows ever
closer to local barman Sam, she dares to dream that she might never
return to her real life. But when a familiar face returns to town, Tess
realises that there are secrets in Wynmouth too, and that her own past
may be about to catch up with her . . . <br /><br />
The Secret Seaside Escape
is the perfect read this summer, promising sandy beaches,
stunning rockpools and breath-taking romance. Perfect for fans of Carole
Matthews and Sarah Morgan.</span></i><br />
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<span id="freeText11871794716342678046">I was delighted to be asked to host a slot on the blog tour for Heidi Swain's latest title The Secret Seaside Escape. I love Heidi's books and was particularly excited for this one as it is set on the beautiful North Norfolk Coast where I have lived all my life.</span><br />
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<span id="freeText11871794716342678046">I was not at all disappointed by this latest book. It has that wonderful feel of a Heidi Swain book where you know that you are going to be in for quite a lovely time and goodness me we are need that escapism at the moment. </span><br />
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<span id="freeText11871794716342678046">I loved meeting Tess and following her on her adventure as she runs away to Wynmouth, a tiny village on the North Norfolk Coast. One thing Heidi does particularly well in her books is that she builds up a community that you come to love with a host of delightful characters and this was no exception. I loved seeing Tess meet the people of Wynmouth and settle into the community and find herself a place. </span><br />
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<span id="freeText11871794716342678046">This book showcases the North Norfolk Coast beautifully. It captures the big skies, sea air gorgeousness that is involved with living by the sea and the slower pace of life that being tucked out of the away affords.</span><br />
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<span id="freeText11871794716342678046">All in all a delightful read which is exactly what I needed. I'm already on the count down to a return visit.</span>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-79043413499202913012019-12-18T11:11:00.000+00:002019-12-18T11:11:09.927+00:00My favourite books of 2019 I can't quite believe we are at the end of the year again and I'm picking my favourite books again but here we are.<br />
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I can't make this a top 10 list and don't particularly want to. This list features all of the books I've rated 5 stars this year. This list very much shows off the type of reader I've become over the past 10 years of fiction focusing particularly on contemporary fiction (both YA and adult) although I am surprised that there isn't more historical fiction on the list as I love that just as much.<br />
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<u>Women's fiction</u><br />
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The Cornish Cream Tea Bus by Cressida McLaughlin<br />
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I loved this book because the story was lovely and featured all the cakes and I basically want to be Charlie. There's a sequel(ish) coming next year and I'm already beyond excited for it.<br />
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Messy wonderful us by Catherine Isaac<br />
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One of those books that transport you to the setting and make you desperate to visit. I loved it.<br />
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Living my best life by Claire Frost<br />
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I loved what this book had to say about social media and not believe everything you see online.<br />
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Almost Adults by Ali Pantony<br />
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<br />
I loved this books because it was so very relatable. I also loved how it focused on female friendships.<br />
<br />
Don't you forget about me by Mhairi McFarlane<br />
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I love Mhairi's books and this was no exception. Lovely contemporary nivel.<br />
<br />
The flatshare by Beth O'Leary<br />
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<br />
I loved the concept of this book and was intrigued from the moment I first heard about it. It works so well and it such an awesome read.<br />
<br />
Last orders at the Star and Sixpence<br />
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This is a sequel that I'd been looking forward to for a while and I loved it,<br />
<br />
Snowed in at the practice<br />
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<br />
Another sequel which I couldn't wait for and had to read desperately as soon as it arrived. I loved being back in the village with Holly.<br />
<br />
Poppy's recipe for life by Heidi Swain<br />
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<br />
I discovered Heidi's books last year and love them. I couldn't wait for more and this didn't disappoint at all.<br />
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If you were here by Alice Peterson<br />
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<br />
This book has the right balance of heartbreaking and uplifting and I loved it entirely.<br />
<br />
If you could go anywhere by Paige Toon<br />
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Another author I adore. I loved it completely.<br />
<br />
<u>Historical Fiction</u><br />
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The Photographer of the Lost by Caroline Scott<br />
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<br />
Set in and around the Western Front just after WWI this book was absolutely my thing. I love historical fiction and know the area well. It really brought home to me just how much of a toll the war had on those left alive at the end.<br />
<br />
The Love Child by Rachel Hore<br />
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<br />
This book appealed to me so much set in the interwar years with a focus on medical and social history. I loved it.<br />
<br />
<u>YA Fiction</u><br />
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Meat Market by Juno Dawson<br />
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<br />
A Juno Dawson book never fails to be a winner for me and this was superb. A real insight into the fashion industry with so much to think about.<br />
<br />
The Places I've Cried in Public by Holly Bourne<br />
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<br />
Holly is another author whose books are so relevant in the YA market and just keep getting better and better. I loved it.<br />
<br />
The boy who steals houses by CG Drews<br />
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<br />
I loved this book. It was heartbreaking and thoughtful throughout.<br />
<br />
Heartstopper volume 2 by Alice Oseman<br />
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<br />
I loved this book just as much as Volume 1. Nick and Charlie are my favs. I cannot wait for volume three.<br />
<br />
The quiet at the end of the world by Lauren James<br />
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<br />
<br />
I love Lauren's books because they are just a little bit different. This was fab.<br />
<br />
Fierce Fragile Hearts by Sara Barnard<br />
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<br />
Another sequel I adored. Such a brilliant read which packed an emotional punch.<br />
<br />
No Big Deal by Bethany Rutter<br />
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<br />
I loved this and the main character, her body positivity and outlook on life.<br />
<br />
The Paper and Hearts Society by Lucy Powrie<br />
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<br />
Such a lovely read about finding your people and being true to yourself. I can't wait for book two.<br />
<u><br /></u>
<u>Non Fiction</u><br />
<br />
The To Do List and other debacles<br />
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<br />
I've put this under non fiction - it's memoir but Amy describes it as a non fiction novel saying that it is based on her experiences but no exactly. Either way I loved it and what it had to say.<br />
<br />
<u>Thriller</u><br />
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The Turn of the Key by Ruth Ware<br />
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This book had me gripped from the outset. I love Ruth's books as they always keep me guessing and I thought this was brilliant.kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-32101993448280540592019-12-01T10:31:00.001+00:002019-12-01T11:02:45.681+00:00Blog Tour: Love songs for sceptics by Christina Pishiris<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am delighted today to be part f the blog tour for Christina Pishrirs's brilliant book love songs for sceptics. I was lucky enough to read a copy a while back and found myself hooked to every page as I rooted for the main character from the outset.<br />
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I have been asked today to share my favourite sceptical love songs and after lots of deliberating I've picked one song that I think fits the bill from Striking Matches a band I am currently obsessed with after seeing them live in London over half term. The song I've picked is Make a Liar out of me which I really think fits the bill of a sceptical love song and the video I've picked is an acoustic recording of them which shows off how brilliant the duo are.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">When she was thirteen, Zoë Frixos fell in love with Simon, her best friend and the boy next door. Though they’ve been friends for over twenty years, she’s never found a way to tell him how she feels. Now Simon is returning to London, newly divorced and as devastatingly charming as ever.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Meanwhile, the music magazine that Zoë edits is facing closure unless she can secure the coup of the century and get an interview from notoriously elusive musician Marcie Tyler. But Marcie’s arrogant publicist Nick seems intent on hindering Zoë at every turn.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">With her brother’s upcoming wedding meaning Zoë is also called upon to attend family gatherings, hen parties and dress fittings, will she ever manage to tell Simon how she really feels while securing the future of the magazine she loves?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">With a smart, relatable central character and razor-sharp wit, <i>Love Songs For Sceptics</i> is perfect for fans of Mhairi McFarlane and Lucy Vine, with a dose of <i>My Big Fat Greek Wedding</i> thrown in for good measure!</b><br />
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Love songs for sceptics is now out on ebook.<br />
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<br />kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-89816377280052737682019-11-24T11:24:00.000+00:002019-11-24T11:24:08.146+00:00Snowed in at the practice by Penny Parkes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Welcome to the Larkford Surgery in the Cotswolds, the heart of a tightknit community as well as a hotbed of drama, rivalry, resentment and romance - and that's just the doctors …</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Dr Holly Graham is finding life with two sets of twins exhausting. Even with husband Dr Taffy Jones and devoted friend Elsie by her side, she is completely outnumbered. Making the transition back to work will be no easy feat but a regular slot on Radio Larkford as their on-air doctor might be the perfect stepping stone, until an unexpected job offer changes everything.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Dr Alice Walker’s</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;"> new canine clinic at Larkford Surgery with Coco, her assistance dog, has been a storming success. If only shipping her best friend, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">Dr Tilly Grainger</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">, in from South America to cover for Holly had been such a smooth transition. It seems that Tilly isn’t finding life in the peaceful Cotswolds valley as rewarding as she’d hoped, and she is causing chaos ..</span></i><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">I discovered The Larkford Series about a year ago and read the three books back to back in quick succession. I've thoroughly enjoyed following the stories of Dr Holly Graham from book to book and couldn't wait to get my hands on the next instalment.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Rest assured fellow fans of Larkford this next instalment is ace. I loved going back to the village and the doctors surgery we have all come to love. At the start of the book Holly is on maternity leave dealing with the second set of twins and trying to work out how to balance being a mother of four alongside wanting to return to work so she can be more than just mum again. Seeing her adapt to her new life and work out how to manage it all made for a very interesting read indeed.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">As usual the rest of the gang featured too. Lovely Elsie was back on full form being her wonderful quirky self and as with the previous books I loved every scene she appeared in. A lot of the story looked at new doctor Tilly and her struggles fitting into life in the Cotswolds. </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">A lot of the story also looked at Dr Dan Carter and his new relationship. I can't say an awful lot about where that thread goes for fear of straying into spoiler territory but suffice to say I loved it.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px;">All in all a brilliant new instalment of a series I adore. I loved being back in Larkford and am already desperate for more.</span>kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-18035855418417251892019-11-02T09:00:00.000+00:002019-11-02T09:00:03.448+00:00The Christmas Wishlist by Heidi Swain<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14px;">After being let go from her job in a swanky hotel just weeks before Christmas, Hattie is feeling lost. Even more so when her high-flying boyfriend announces he’s landed his dream job in Abu Dhabi and asks her to move with him. Luckily, Hattie’s long-time friend Dolly is on hand to help and invites Hattie to spend one last holiday in the small, festive town of Wynbridge, determined to give her a Christmas to remember . . .</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14px;">Upon Hattie’s arrival, holiday preparations are in full swing. But for Hattie, whose Christmas cheer has long since run out, it’ll take more than mince pies and mistletoe to open her heart to the season once more. Relishing the task of reigniting Hattie’s Christmas spirit, Dolly suggests they create a wish list of all the things the season can offer, and with the helpful hands of Wynbridge’s resident handyman, Beamish, Hattie finds her frosty exterior is starting to thaw.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14px;">As Wynbridge prepares for its most spectacular Christmas yet, will Hattie leave snowy England behind for life in a sunnier clime, or will she in fact realise that her heart’s desire lies much closer to home?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">I thoroughly enjoy Heidi's books. I first came across them last year and devoured all of her backlist within a matter of weeks and have been eagerly awaiting each release since. I was therefore very excited indeed to receive this book in the post and couldn't wait to get started completely breaking my rule of only reading christmas themed books in December.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">I loved The Christmas Wish List for several reasons. I love meeting new character Hattie and following her story as she starts to work through a Christmas themed wishlist with her friend whilst staying with her on a short holiday. The story itself is really sweet and i particularly love the friendship between Hattie and her older friend Dolly. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">I loved the Christmas elements of the book and this is absolutely the one you need to read when you get to the point of the year when you want to fully indulge in all things festive. As frequent visitors to Wynbridge already know they know how to do Christmas and have plenty going on to get into the seasonal spirit.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">As always I loved getting back to Wynbridge itself. Whilst it can be happily read as a standalone I love how the story included so many cameos from the various characters from previous books. Catching up with them was lovely and feels like you are coming back to catch up with old friends.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">All in all a fantastic read that I loved.</span></span></span></div>
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kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-254513582786334486.post-3677232038720842712019-10-31T17:58:00.000+00:002019-10-31T17:58:05.894+00:00The Photographer of the Dead by Caroline Scott<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span id="freeText15507154312342590611"> Until she knows her husband’s fate, she cannot decide her own...<br /> An epic debut novel of forbidden love, loss, and the shattered hearts left behind in the wake of World War I<br /><br />
1921. Families are desperately trying to piece together the fragments
of their broken lives. While many survivors of the Great War have been
reunited with their loved ones, Edie’s husband Francis has not come
home. He is considered ‘missing in action’, but when Edie receives a
mysterious photograph taken by Francis in the post, hope flares. And so
she beings to search.<br /><br /> Harry, Francis’s brother, fought alongside
him. He too longs for Francis to be alive, so they can forgive each
other for the last things they ever said. Both brothers shared a love of
photography and it is that which brings Harry back to the Western
Front. Hired by grieving families to photograph gravesites, as he
travels through battle-scarred France gathering news for British wives
and mothers, Harry also searches for evidence of his brother.<br /><br /> And as Harry and Edie’s paths converge, they get closer to a startling truth.<br /><br /> An incredibly moving account of an often-forgotten moment in history, The Photographer of the Lost
tells the story of the thousands of soldiers who were lost amid the
chaos and ruins, and the even greater number of men and women desperate
to find them again.</span></i><br />
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I am really glad I read this book. It is thoroughly haunting and so beautifully written. It spends a lot of time considering what life was like for those left behind at the end of war and it really made me think quite deeply about those left at the end of the war, what they went through and had to come to terms with in order to just exist.<br /><br />The story looks at two characters in particular the first being Harry a soldier who survived that war and now makes his money going over the battle sites to photograph sites of special interest or graves for loved ones back home. He story is such a sad one because even though he survived the war he isn't really living and spends his time feeling guilty at having survived and surrounded by constant reminders of what he went through whilst he goes about his working literally visiting sites he fought at. There was something so real and sad about his story that really touched me because his story could be any of those men who signed up for WWI not really knowing what they let themselves in for.<br /><br />The other main character was Edie, Harry's sister in law who is still searching for her husband several years after the end of 1918 having never had confirmation about what really happened to her husband. Her story was so incredibly sad as she leads this life in limbo unable to move forward without knowing the truth about what has happened and resigned to a life again wandering the sites in Flanders trying to find some answers. Once again her experience so easily could have been the experience of so many other women at the time.<br /><br />This books also does really justice to the World War One Battlefield sites. The way in which is talks about the sites around Ypres helps the reader really start to get a sense of their vastness but more importantly the utter devastation the experience of war left behind for the people of Belgium and France and the impact this continued to have long after armistice day. This certainly isn't something we talk enough about in the UK because most of the fighting didn't happen on our doorstep.<br />
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All in all a brilliant book which I know will stay with me for a long time to come.kirsty at the overflowing libraryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08688668056795747019noreply@blogger.com0